Janice Crain

Kidney Recipient

“I’ve been living with kidney disease since 1988, and I always knew I would need either dialysis for the rest of my life or a kidney transplant. This journey taught me more about myself than I could have ever imagined, and I am stronger than I ever thought possible. My battle was full of sleepless nights, fatigue and pain, but on September 17, 2020, I was placed on the waiting list for a new kidney. The wait was long, but I trusted in God’s perfect timing. On Halloween morning of 2021, my life was changed thanks to my 13-year-old donor hero, Noah.   

I had the opportunity to meet with Noah’s father and learn more about my amazing donor hero. His family showed me so much love and compassion as they told me about their son, who was so caring and always saw the beauty in everyone. Noah saved many lives, not just mine, through his gift of donation, including an 11-year-old girl who received his heart, a 55-year-old man who received his other kidney, and a man whose vision was restored through Noah’s gift of cornea donation.   

I know I have a responsibility to live my life to the fullest for Noah and me. I strive to take care of my gift daily and advocate for organ donation in the process. If you are not an organ donor, I encourage you to register as one and ‘share your pair’ for those awaiting a new kidney!”