2017 Jeanna Cheung

JEANNE CHEUNG

Kidney Donor

Silver Spring, Maryland

After Jeanne’s husband’s diagnosis of end stage renal failure, Jeanne knew something had to be done. Keenan was a Type O which is a very difficult match. Jeanne was more than willing to give her kidney despite her being a Type A.  One day, they received a letter from UCLA regarding Dr. Veale’s program for a living donation chain. After anxiously waiting, on June 8, 2009, it all happened. Keenan received a new kidney from Reggie Griffin and Jeanne donated to Sonia Valencia. Sonia is thriving, Reggie is thriving, Keenan and Jeanne are thriving, and most importantly, their 3 boys have their father back.

Jeanne’s Story

After Keenan’s diagnosis of end stage renal failure, I knew something had to be done in order for Keenan to receive a kidney transplant. Keenan was Type O which is a very difficult match. I was more than willing to give Keenan a kidney but I am a Type A so our kidneys were not a match. One day, we received a letter from UCLA regarding Dr. Veale’s program for living donation chains. I thought since I was willing to give my Kidney anyway, why not give it to someone else so Keenan could get one. After anxiously waiting, on June 8, 2009, it all happened. Keenan received a new kidney from Reggie Griffin and I donated mine to Sonia Valencia and I have absolutely no regret. Sonia is thriving, Reggie is thriving, Keenan and I are thriving, and most importantly, our 3 boys have their father back. Who would have thought that such a simple concept could save so many lives?