Sharon Parson, Jack's sister, was his donor. She was nearly a perfect match and only 25 years old when she saved her brother's life. At the time of Jack's transplant, she felt like her recovery from her surgery was actually tougher than Jack's recovery from his transplant. However, such surgeries have changed a lot since that day 40 years ago. Her donation ended the 8-hour, twice a week dialysis ordeal that Jack was undergoing. After his transplant, Jack was unable to play competitive sports again, so he took up hiking, art, traveling, and horseback riding.
When asked about Jack's transplant, Sharon said she's convinced that "... the Lord was in it" because Jack's life changed, and he touched many, many people. She feels like Jack has gotten the most out of his "second chance" and that the discomfort and pain she went through were well worth it.
Today, there are over 110,000 Americans who currently need a similar "second chance." In fact, about 75-80% of them need a kidney and will wait an average of 3 long years for it. The saddest part is that many of them will die before getting one. You can make a difference and save lives by registering to be an organ and tissue donor. Please visit the Donate Life America website by clicking here or on the banner above for more information and to learn how to register as a donor in the state where you live.
Source : www2.journalnow.com article titled Medical Miracle : Kidney Transplant Has Lasted 40 Years and Still Going Strong
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