Kenny and I met through Nichiren Buddhism 17 years ago but it was brief, then 15 years later we met again and became friends. Chanting Nam Myoho Renge Kyo together weekly, I learned about his need of a donor. Then one day after an activity, we were eating and seeing him swallow all those pills he needed just to eat, I blurted out, “I can give you a kidney.”
I had not thought about it prior. He ignored me, until two days later when I persistently asked for info to see if I was a match. Three weeks later on Xmas Eve I got the call. I WAS a match.
Being able to help someone who is suffering is the greatest gift one can give themselves, because when we help others we help ourselves. The surgery was very simple. We celebrate his first kidney birthday (donation date) today. For me, my life changed only in perspective – his changed in every way. He thanks me for giving him his life back. There truly is no greater gift than that of gratitude. I am grateful for opportunity to help him.
– Staci Hurt
What a beautiful story of friendship! Thank you so much for sharing this!
Also, thought you might be interested to know that Tibetan Buddhist teacher, the Dalai Lama, last year encouraged people to donate organs, saying it was a serious practice of dharma and “the greatest service to mankind.”