I still search for a living kidney donor, and along the way of this search I am blessed.
I must have done something good because today as I fumble to pay my parking ticket at the RI Hospital kiosk I hear a clear voice, “Can I help you?” As I turn around, the woman startles when she sees who I am. I recognize her also but I can’t recall how. She gives me the key: her son Jack. Then it all falls into place —the years when as the school social worker I spoke with her nearly daily, giving reports of how Jack was adjusting to the school day. Together we had worked so closely to help Jack stay in school each day. He’s now a senior in high school and she wants to invite me to his graduation party. Of course I will go. With some hesitancy, I gather courage to let her know that I have chronic kidney disease, stage five, and that I’m searching for a living kidney donor. “Can you help?” I ask. Without any hesitancy, she texts me her email address. Something good happens.
Sharon Foley as a school social worker, teaching a lesson to first grade students on finding a safe spot.