In 1985, Jeanne and Dan Cuda's seven-year-old son Brad was fatally struck by a vehicle. Even at such a young age he knew he wanted to be an organ donor. Twenty-two years later, the Cudas received an unexpected letter from one of the recipients, who was an 18-year-old college freshman when she received one of Brad's kidneys. Ironically, following a diagnosis of polycistic kidney disease, at the age of 48 Dan received a transplant in November 1993. Two decades later he can say, "This was a life-saving and life-changing experience that allowed me to be healthy and happy once again."

Dan's Story

In 1985, Jeanne and Dan Cuda's seven-year-old son Brad was fatally struck by a vehicle. Even at such a young age he knew he wanted to be an organ donor. Twenty-two years later, the Cudas received an unexpected letter from one of the recipients, who was an 18-year-old college freshman when she received one of Brad's kidneys. Ironically, following a diagnosis of polycistic kidney disease, at the age of 48 Dan received a transplant in November 1993. Two decades later he can say, "This was a life-saving and life-changing experience that allowed me to be healthy and happy once again."

In Spring 1985, seven-year-old Brad Cuda was walking home from school when he was fatally struck by a vehicle. "In that instant, his life was gone, but his mother Jeanne and I made the decision that allowed two other lives to be saved," said Brad's father, Dan Cuda. "Brad was a character who made us laugh a lot. He was also a very caring little boy. Shortly before his accident, our family had watched a television show about organ donation. After the program, Brad told us 'that's the way things should be done.' Brad's kidneys and corneas were donated, a decision that wasn't difficult because without a doubt, that's what he would have wanted."

Twenty-two years later, the Cudas received an unexpected letter from one of the recipients who had always been in their hearts. "When we donated Brad's kidneys, we hoped it would be a miracle for two other families," Dan said. "Hearing from one of the recipients was a real high. We've read the letter many times now and it's still difficult to read it without tears. It's wonderful to hear that this woman still has Brad's kidney and is doing well."

From the letter, the Cudas learned that the recipient was was then an 18-year-old college freshman. After her transplant from Dan's son, she was able to marry and became the mother of three. "She knows her kidney came from a child and wrote that her own children will grow to understand the true measure of this gift," he noted.

Ironically, Dan himself would be in need of a transplant following a diagnosis of polycistic kidney disease. A low-protein diet helped him stave off dialysis and a transplant for years. During this time, Dan continued his real estate business, despite the travel it entailed.

"My business partner would drive and I would hang the dialysis bag on the sun visor, don my surgical mask and do my thing," recalled Dan. "I also went on a fishing trip with the guys to Canada. It just proves that you can do things you really want to."

In November 1993, at age 48, Dan received a kidney transplant. Two decades later he can say, "This was a life-saving and life-changing experience that allowed me to be healthy and happy once again. I am a father of three and a grandfather of six and I have learned that time is precious and it shouldn't be wasted worrying about the future. Rethink your family and spend time with your children and grandchildren. And don't forget your friends; they will always be there, too."