2016 Steve Lang

STEVE LANG

Kidney Donor

Age 63 ~ Long Beach, CA

Honored by onelegacy.org

With the support of his wife and daughter, Steve donated his kidney to his friend Jamie on January 5, 2010. Jamie was on dialysis three days a week and was looking at a 7 year wait for a kidney transplant.  With a low chance of survival, Steve prayed for his friend’s recovery.  When Steve informed Jamie of his decision, Jamie hollered in happiness.  A couple of tests and four hours of surgery later, Jamie’s health began improving and family and friends looked after Steve’s recovery with prayers and words of encouragement.  Jamie can now watch his son grow up and Steve is honored to play a part in such a miracle.

Steve’s Story

My name is Steve Lang and I donated my kidney on January 5, 2010 to a family friend Jamie Carvlin, who was on dialysis three days a week and the list for kidney transplants – a seven year wait. In his failing condition, it was doubtful that Jamie could last that long.  He was the devoted father of an adopted nine year old son and I argued with God that we couldn’t afford to lose him.  With my wife and daughter’s support, I decided if I could help, I was willing.

After improving my blood pressure and testing, it was confirmed that we were an approved match.  The Cedar’s Sinai staff said it was OK for me to call Jamie and let him know the good news. When I announced that I was to be his “blood brother” there was a holler of happiness on the phone that still brings tears to my eyes as I recall that moment. Never have I had the experience of witnessing or moreover causing such joy from another human being.  Experiencing that pure happiness and faith-filled hope in his voice was an incredible gift to me – a moment in my life that I will never forget.

Our four hour surgery was a success. Family and friends were thrilled over the immediate improvement of Jamie’s health and my measured recovery. We were supported by many prayers from our families, friends and fellow parishioners.

Without hesitation, I would do it all again for the life it has given Jamie and his family and the enhanced dimension of life it has given me – to play a part in a miracle.  I am more appreciative and cognizant of my personal health and the health of others.  I have a stronger personal faith and greater sense of purpose.  Consequently I have become active in Donate Life to spread the word about tissue and organ donation.  I feel privileged as a living donor, that I was given this unique opportunity. I have come to further believe that it is all about making a difference and caring when it counts.