Medical Miracles on Display at Annual Donor Dash
Hundreds of participants gathered at Kiwanis Park in Tempe for the fifth annual Donor Dash, a spirited event commemorating the selfless gift of organ donation. Athletes competed in the 10K and 5K races and participated in a 1K Family Fun Run/Walk. The gathering recognizes the altruism of both living and deceased donors, whose sacrifices grant others a renewed lease on life.
Among the participants were kidney transplant recipient Tracy Wingo, her living donor Courtney Bulla, and their doctor from the Mayo Clinic, Dr. Huzan Kamash. Wingo credits the life-saving generosity of Bulla with her ongoing health and ability to participate in activities like the Donor Dash. Each year, the friends commemorate their "kidney-versary" with new adventures, underscoring the enduring bond formed through the transplant journey.
Courtney Bulla, moved by Wingo’s dire need for a kidney, decided without hesitation to donate. Her selflessness highlights how individuals can profoundly impact the lives of others, providing opportunities to participate in events like the Donor Dash. This gathering was not just a celebration of health but a testament to the impact of living organ donors.
The funds raised during the event will benefit the Transplant Community Alliance’s Living Assistance Program. This initiative provides financial support to transplant recipients, their families, and those on the transplant waitlist. The need remains significant, with over 100,000 patients in the United States awaiting transplants, primarily kidneys.
Events like the Donor Dash not only emphasize the importance of organ donation but also celebrate the spirit and resilience of recipients and donors alike. For individuals like Tracy Wingo, participating in such fundraisers is a way to honor those who have given them a second chance at life and to inspire others to consider becoming organ donors.
