First published 2024-11-14 19:25:45
In a heartwarming story of selflessness and hope, a local couple from Tewksbury, Massachusetts, has formed an unexpected bond with a stranger after a life-saving kidney donation. Scott Matthew Pittman, who was diagnosed with polycystic kidney disease at 18, faced a grim future as his kidneys slowly failed. Doctors predicted that by age 50, he would need a kidney transplant to survive. When Scott’s kidneys began to fail, his wife Liz stepped in, offering to donate her own kidney to save him. Though Liz wasn’t a match for Scott, she joined the National Kidney Voucher Program, which allowed her to donate to someone else in need, ultimately helping Scott move up the transplant list.
Liz’s kidney went to 39-year-old Amanda Battle from Stoughton, who had been suffering from kidney failure. In the fall of 2023, Amanda received Liz’s kidney, giving her a renewed chance at life. Amanda expressed her gratitude, saying the transplant felt like a “second lease on life.” Motivated by her own experience, Amanda is committed to doing good and teaching her daughter about kindness and generosity. Just months later, Scott finally received his long-awaited kidney transplant in August 2024. The surgery, which took 8.5 hours, was a success, and Scott’s health quickly began to improve after years of dialysis and declining kidney function.
A year after the transplants, the three individuals—Liz, Amanda, and Scott—met in person, forming a bond that transcends mere donor-recipient relationships. The encounter was filled with laughter, warmth, and a deep sense of connection, as the trio reflected on how a simple act of kindness had changed their lives. Liz shared a humorous moment, recalling how she imagined her kidney being airlifted to its destination like in an action movie. Today, the three are forever linked through the gift of life, grateful for the chance to share their stories and inspire others to consider organ donation.
