OSOYOOS — Their lives depend on receiving a phone call. But for some, that call never comes.
They are people waiting for an organ transplant.
Laura Craig had to wait for that life-saving call more than once.
Craig received her first transplant back in 2005. But less than 5 years later, her body started to reject the organ.
“I was devastated,” said Craig. “There’s nothing worse than someone going through the process to give you something to save your life, and then you lose it.”
Her husband, Terry Craig, donated his kidney to her the first time.
The couple knew it would be harder now to find a match because they have a rare blood type.
Laura was on dialysis while she waited, a treatment she was prepared to take for the rest of her life.
But two months ago, a doctor from Vancouver called her with the news she’s been hoping for.
“I was in shock and disbelief. It was out of blue,” said Craig.
The kidney transplant was successful, but the Craigs’ crusade isn’t over.
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There are still many waiting for a kidney transplant, including others who live in Osoyoos, so they decided to take action.
The couple joined forces with local hockey team, the Osoyoos Coyotes, to wear a “Be the Kidney” patch on their jerseys.
The team’s captain said the fans do notice the patch and are often curious.
“There’s been many parents who have come up to me and asked about the kidney patch. We’re just showing it and wearing it proud,” said Colin Chmelka.
There are currently two people waiting for a kidney transplant in Osoyoos.
The hockey players will continue to wear the kidney logo on their jerseys until no one in the small town needs the gift of life.
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