Original story published 2024-09-06 18:21:45
STORY SUMMARY
A heartwarming chapter unfolded in Veo County, Indiana, as local librarian Bonnie McNair, who had been in dire need of a kidney transplant, received a life-saving donation from an unexpected source—her co-worker, Lauren Hackert. Hackert, already registered as a bone marrow donor, felt compelled to help upon learning of McNair’s need. After a lengthy process, Hackert discreetly revealed her intention to donate, culminating in their successful surgeries at IU University Hospital in Indianapolis on March 21. Both recovered well, with McNair expressing immense gratitude for Hackert’s altruism. This gesture underscores the importance of organ donation and the profound impact of community support.
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FULL STORY
Librarian Bonnie McNair of the Veo County Public Library faced a life-threatening situation last year as she awaited a living kidney donor. Overcoming her natural inclination for privacy, McNair reached out for help. Fast forward to today, McNair is celebrating a new lease on life thanks to a new kidney from an unexpected source—Lauren Hackert, a co-worker stationed merely a few shelves away within the same library.
Hackert, already attuned to the concept of organ donation due to a past experience involving her father’s cancer diagnosis, had committed herself to being on the bone marrow donor registry long before learning of McNair’s plight. Eventually, through a mutual friend, Hackert discovered McNair’s dire need for a kidney and decided to step forward discreetly. Months of preparation and a stringent medical approval process culminated in Hackert revealing her altruistic intention to McNair. Their emotional exchange took place at the library, marking the beginning of a voyage that would lead them to IU University Hospital in Indianapolis for the life-saving procedure.
On March 21, the surgeries took place in adjacent operating rooms, marking a pivotal moment in both their lives. McNair now thrives with three kidneys, one fully functional, and has seen significant improvements in her overall health. Hackert expressed her hope that such acts of giving become normalized and not deemed extraordinary. Both women now share a profound bond and emphasize the significance of community and giving. Hackert’s selfless donation has not only transformed McNair’s life but also showcased the critical impact organ donation can have. For more information on how to become an organ donor, interested individuals can visit Indiana Donor Network’s official website.
