Ann Rayburn

Tissue recipient

Age 52 – Birmingham, AL

Honored by Alabama Organ Center

Ann Rayburn is passionate about her daughter, her pets, and helping others. On June 24, 2016, Ann donated a kidney to her friend, Tess. But Ann’s connection to donation started long before then. In 1989, she left critical care nursing to work as a procurement transplant coordinator in Kentucky. 19 years ago, she moved to Birmingham to work at Alabama Organ Center, and she currently serves as their Director of Education. Ann and Tess met just prior to the move to Alabama. Tess and her husband became friends and provided a support system for Ann. Ann knew early on that Tess suffered from polycystic kidney disease, a genetic disease that affected Tess’ family. When Tess experienced kidney failure, Ann got tested and was a good match, and she donated her kidney.

Ann’s Story

Ann Rayburn is passionate about her daughter, Sarah, her house full of animals, University of Alabama football, and helping others. On June 24, 2016, Ann donated a kidney to her friend, Tess. But, Ann’s connection to donation started long before then! In 1989, she left critical care nursing to work as a procurement transplant coordinator in Kentucky. Her career later took her to North Carolina and then life took her to Birmingham, Alabama. Ann and Tess met just prior to the move to Alabama. Tess and her husband were the first people she knew. Tess became a friend and support system for Ann in the new city. Ann knew early on that Tess suffered from polycystic kidney disease, a genetic disease that affected Tess’ mom, sister and brother. It was always in the back of Ann’s mind that one day Tess may need a kidney. In September of 2015, Ann and Tess were catching up on the phone and Tess shared that her kidneys were failing. Her doctor had told her that within a year she either needed to be transplanted or she would be on dialysis. The next day, Ann called Tess and told her that she wanted to be tested to be her donor. Tess said, “I cannot ask you to do that.” Ann replied, “You didn’t, I volunteered!” Ann knew she was blood type O and in good health so she was hopeful that she could help her friend. The evaluation went well, Ann was a match for Tess and the surgery was scheduled. Things could not have gone better! Tess avoided dialysis and her kidney is functioning well. She can focus on her family and living her life. In her 19 years with the Alabama Organ Center, and most currently as the Director of Education, Ann continues to educate people about the importance of organ, eye and tissue donation, but with added enthusiasm since she has shared the Gift of Life!