Living Donation Week: Marco’s Story

Marco and his father on transplant day

For CTA Board member and Membership Director Marco, it was a tough card to be dealt finding out his native kidneys weren't keeping up. It was frustrating to have dreams, goals and ambitions, and not know if he was going to be able to realize them. Would his health support all he wanted to do?

Marco’s father, who has been his sounding board and role model throughout his life, stepped in and became Marco’s living donor just over 7 months ago. Marco sometimes struggles to find the words to describe his gratitude for what his father did for him: “He gave me the ultimate gift of time and became my donor, a gift that I'll spend my life trying to express my appreciation for - and will never come close enough.”

The recovery journey has not always been linear but Marco and his Dad are punching through it. This experience has given Marco time to reflect on how he feels blessed to have the unconditional love and support (and kidney) from his family. “I've been lucky enough to be surrounded by an incredible family, wife and colleagues to get me through everything before, during and after the transplant. I’ve leaned on so many special people that continue to help me work through this.”

Marco says he’s more motivated than ever to be back in action - something he recognizes wouldn't be possible without the courage and love of his dad, as well as science and the transplant community. 💚