MONTGOMERY COUNTY: In a compelling story of friendship and selflessness, Leslie Lawson and Janice Hodge bonded over organ donation in an unexpected way. Lawson met Hodge before the pandemic, and their friendship took a poignant turn when Hodge was diagnosed with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in 2023. Despite not being a match for Hodge, Lawson committed to making a life-changing contribution by volunteering as a pediatric liver donor.
Tests revealed that Lawson’s liver was unsuitable for donation to Hodge due to anatomical complexities, but she was identified as a viable donor for an infant in urgent need. Opting for the pediatric procedure, which required the removal of a smaller portion of her liver, Lawson’s altruism saved a young life. This decision did not only demonstrate her willingness to help Hodge but also showcased the broader impact of organ donation, particularly for pediatric patients.
Hodge, despite the setback in finding a suitable donor, remains grateful for Lawson’s actions and maintains hope for her own future transplant. Faced with an eight-year deadline set by doctors to secure a matching liver from an O positive or O negative donor, Hodge emphasizes the critical need for more organ donors. She highlights the rigorous criteria that make finding a match an arduous task, urging others to consider organ donation to alleviate the shortage.
Lawson, recovering from her surgery, speaks to the deep bond that has formed between her and Hodge, likening their friendship to that of sisters. As she prepares to return to work, she holds onto the hope of one day meeting the infant she helped save. Both women remain advocates for organ donation, hoping their story inspires others to consider such life-affirming contributions.
