April Wilson

Type of Donation:       liver and kidney (living donor)

Age and Location:      Age 47 – Denver, IA

Date of Donation:           10/21/2019 and 11/13/2024

Sponsor:                      Honored by Iowa Donor Network

APRIL’S STORY

On Christmas Eve of 2018, my mom was rushed to the hospital by ambulance. Testing showed she had non-alcoholic cirrhosis of the liver. Doctors explained that although she was very sick, her MELD score was not high enough to prioritize her for a transplant, making it very unlikely she would receive a deceased donor liver before the disease claimed her life. They said her only chance for survival was a living donor. My sister and I both volunteered to be tested, but since I was a smoker and needed to quit for at least 30 days, she went through the process first. My sister underwent testing but found that her liver's anatomy wasn't compatible with my mom's. Because I had been smoke-free for nearly three months at that point, Mayo asked if I wanted to be tested, and of course, I said YES! The medical team confirmed I was cleared to donate on August 21, and the surgery was performed on October 21, 2019.

Seeing how my mom's life improved in such a positive way motivated me to become an advocate for organ donation—encouraging others to check yes and consider becoming a living donor. Additionally, her improved health and meeting many kidney recipients and donors at the Transplant Games of America inspired me to consider becoming a living kidney donor. As of November 13, 2024, I became an altruistic kidney donor and proudly wear the title of two-time donor.

My mom has had the joy of seeing two of her grandchildren get sober, three graduate high school, and three graduate college. She has also been able to meet two of her great-granddaughters.

Although I did not know her before the surgery, I have been able to connect with my recipient and her family. I am happy to report that Lindsey no longer needs dialysis, and my kidney is working wonderfully for her. I am still smoke-free, and despite donating both organs in my forties, I feel better than ever. I share our stories every chance I get.