Donate Life - Mary King's Story
My first transplant was 34 years ago November 8, 1988. I was 25 years old with an 8 year old, a husband, and my kidneys were failing. All my brothers and sisters were tested; only one was a perfect match, my brother Harold. At that time, I was told, transplants only lasted 10 years; mine lasted 30 years. I went from being sick, no energy, nauseated, not eating, not knowing whether I was going to die or live to getting a transplant within a few months.
My life changed so much. I could be somewhat “normal” again. However, most people think that is where it ends. It does not. My life consisted of blood work every month for years. My body having to have other surgeries due to the medication I was on and bone breakage due to the same medication as well as weight gain. However, through it all, I was blessed. The problems caused by the medications did not matter; I was alive. I could see my kids graduate and get married.
Then in 2017, I lost my kidney function. This time, I went on dialysis. No matter what, I was going to live. I spent eight weeks in the hospital due to ESRD and the doctors saved my life. On April 5, 2018, I had my second kidney transplant from my best friend’s daughter. Her mother tried to donate but things did not work out. My donor went to her mom and said you are not the one to donate to Mary, I am. She had been praying about it and knew what she needed to do. From that point on, she tested and jumped through all the hoops. The transplant was a success. I am so grateful for my life. I get to watch my grandkids grow and I will see them graduate and marry. My husband will have his wife for many years and my kids will get to hear my advice whether they like it or not. I love my family. I love my life. I am so thankful to God that I got a second chance twice. If I can give any advice to anyone wanting to donate, it would be get educated, pray, and talk to your family. To those waiting, stay strong, focus on your family or friends, and know that God will get your through it and never, never give up.
By the way, both of my donors are doing great and lead a full wonderful life. I thank God for them every day.
Learn More
To learn more about organ and tissue donation, visit our Donate Life page. To register to become a donor in Illinois, visit https://www.lifegoeson.com/.