Brooke Long

Living Kidney Donor

“On September 12, 2023, Emilee and I walked hand in hand into the hospital. After surgery, the surgeons came out and told our families, ‘It was the perfect match, ’ shared living kidney donor, Brooke.  

“I’ve known Emilee for 27 years. She was my best friend for years before she became my sister-in-law, too. Emilee had Polycystic Kidney Disease, something I had watched both her mother and grandmother struggle with and pass away from. I saw the effect this disease and dialysis had on them and their lives.  

In January of 2023, Emilee went into renal failure, and I immediately got tested to see if I could donate one of my kidneys to her. I remember I was at my son’s archery tournament when I got the call that I was a match and could donate my right kidney to Emilee. We were so excited! I was never afraid and felt a peace only God could give me.  

Since then, Emilee and I have started advocating for donation within our community by sharing our story and spreading awareness about the importance of organ, eye and tissue donation. Emilee is now a mentor for others waiting for a kidney transplant.  

My advice to someone who is considering donation is this: Ask all the questions. Make sure that you are getting the correct information to make an informed decision. Being a donor is a gift and a privilege. It saves lives! It saved Emilee’s.”