Read, Watch or Listen

Stories were sent to us in different formats—Audio, video and written. If you’d like to view stories for any of these formats, use the links below.

Written Stories
Video Stories
Recorded Stories

Share A Story

Do you have a good values-based story to tell? It doesn’t have to be perfect to make a difference in someone else’s life.

ExtendYourself

My mother died twice in August 2005-- once on her 75th birthday at a crowded restaurant, surrounded by her closest family members-- and finally, the next day at a hospital. Eight months later, I began to come out of the fog of grief and depression to find a new purpose for my life. Like many of my generation, I had lived only for myself-- traveling, acquiring possessions, rising to a position of importance and reaping financial rewards. I was "charitable" and "volunteered" for various causes, but really didn't give of myself. In the spring after mom's death, I found myself waking in the middle of the night with one persistent thought. I felt compelled to offer myself as a living kidney donor. My husband Robb had received the gift of life through a kidney/pancreas transplant from a deceased donor in 1999, so I was familiar with the tremendous need for donors and knew several people who were waiting for a lifesaving transplant. I decided to offer myself to be matched with the most compatible person on the waiting list at my local transplant center. I was paired with a 71 year-old grandmother from New Jersey who had survived for six years on peritoneal dialysis. At her 70th birthday, her family threw a big party as they did not expect her to live much longer. Dee has become my very good friend and confidant. Almost two years after our surgeries, I was privileged to celebrate her 50th wedding anniversary with her husband, their five children and their extended family. In donating my kidney, I extended myself in a way far beyond what I ever believed was possible. I did so in honor of my mother who sacrificed so much for me and my sisters, and in memory of my husband's donor who extended her life through him. I encourage all who enjoy the gift of good health to share with others, either as a living donor or by designating organ donation upon death. By extending yourself through organ donation, you will live on through others in a miraculous way and give comfort to your loved ones.

Story was submitted anonymously