Mary Belton

Kidney Recipient

Initially planning to donate a kidney to her mother, who was on dialysis, Mary discovered she was not a match due to health concerns. During her first pregnancy, Mary got very sick and began facing her own kidney struggles. She had no appetite, felt tired all the time and was weak with cramps and anemia. She started dialysis and continued until 2003. Dialysis was demanding, causing low energy and emotional challenges for Mary. While on the transplant waitlist, Mary received three calls for a potential new kidney, but none of them came to fruition due to complications. Finally, on the fourth attempt, Mary received her kidney transplant and since then, she has embraced life with unwavering determination.  

Mary says that receiving her new kidney “changed everything” for her. Mary’s story reflects the power of resilience and faith as she overcame moments of doubt and struggle; being on dialysis, raising two children and working full-time while unwell is not easy.  

Mary now works full-time as a case manager, has completed her master’s degree in nursing and continues to inspire others with her journey. With gratitude for her 99.9% donor match, Mary emphasizes the importance of listening to doctors, getting on the transplant list and appreciating the gift of life she has received.