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Our Kidde Hero of the Week spotlights Troy Soares.
John from Grass Valley, California emailed us and wrote about his family's Hero story and we wanted to share it with you:
Dear Kix,
My son Bobby was born with a terminal kidney disease that eventually would require him to undergo a kidney transplant. While we were uncertain of when that would be or how much time Bobby had with us, we wanted him to have a wonderful life full of experiences. So, one of the things we loved to do was travel. We especially loved going to Hawaii where Bobby got to watch his "Uncle Troy," one of our very best family friends, compete in the Ironman triathlon.
By the time Bobby was finishing his senior year of high school, we found out that it was time to place him on the transplant list. The only problem was Bobby had type-O blood. My wife and I did not, and we had no idea of anyone that did. But, we never lost hope!
Well, less than two months later, “Uncle Troy” called and told me he wanted to donate his kidney to Bobby because he DID have type O-blood…and he loved our son!
It was quite an ordeal, but in July of 2009, Troy donated his kidney to Bobby. They both made a full recovery and I’m happy to report Bobby is now 23 years old and entering law enforcement…and Troy is still competing in triathlons, doing better than he was before the transplant!
Troy Soares will always be a hero in our family for the life he gave to my son Bobby. We are forever grateful and indebted to him and I couldn’t wait to share our story.
Thanks, Kix!
John
Kix's Response:
Wow – this story kills me! I'd like to think I’d have the courage to do this if a situation like this came along, but, man, that’s a big deal. Bless you, Troy – I’m inspired.
For all the junk thrown at us every day, there’s a lot of good in this world, too!
Appreciate you sharing, John!
Image: John
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