After returning from my bday vacation, my worst fear became a reality. My rock, my best friend, my husband—my everything—fell so sick we rushed him to the ER, where we learned his kidneys were failing. He started dialysis immediately. Our lives changed overnight. At just 40 years old, my husband began daily treatments, and watching him fight for his life motivates me to be strong for our family. As we worked to get him on multiple transplant lists, we learned about living kidney donation. I immediately wanted to donate—he’s my best friend, and his kids need their dad. Though we weren’t a match, I donated through a paired kidney exchange, helping someone in need. What made it even more meaningful was receiving a letter on my birthday—National Donor Day—from my recipient, a husband and father of two. It felt like a full-circle moment. As we wait for my husband’s match, I want to spread awareness. Donating a kidney doesn’t just save one life—it gives families hope and more time together.