03/27/2026
As National Kidney Month comes to an end, we would like to share a grateful kidney transplant recipient’s story. Meet Eustolia. She shared, “My name is Eustolia González. Seventeen years ago, I received a kidney transplant, and I now have three kidneys. I was on the transplant waiting list for seven years. Before receiving my transplant, I did not even know I was a candidate or that my body would be eligible to receive a new organ. During those seven years, I underwent dialysis three times a week, every week. It was a very difficult time. There were moments when I felt deep despair, but there were also moments where I felt at peace. The support of my family and my church was essential in helping me keep going. After the transplant, the beginning was not easy. I struggled with depression and constant fear that I might do something wrong and lose my new kidney. Little by little, with medical care and psychological support, I learned to accept my new reality and to stop living in fear of what could go wrong. Because of this transplant, I have been able to enjoy many more years of life with my husband. He passed away four years ago, but I am deeply grateful for the time God allowed us to share together after my transplant. Those years were a precious gift to me. Today, I feel fulfilled and happy as a woman. I am incredibly blessed to enjoy my children and grandchildren. I am profoundly grateful for my family. To my donor hero, I would say that although their passing was very sad, their decision planted a new opportunity for me to live again. Their donation was not in vain; it was a miracle. There are no words or material things that could ever fully express my infinite gratitude for their generosity and for giving me the gift of life. To anyone considering registering as an organ, eye and tissue donor, I would say… Do not hesitate; do it. When you choose to donate a part of yourself, it is never in vain. You are planting a seed that allows someone else to continue living.” Register to bring hope to those waiting: https://hubs.li/Q046tP8v0
