June 1 - Donor
Barbara Norton, 57
Non-directed (altruistic) donor
Norman, OK
For many years, Barbara Norton had thought about donating a kidney to whoever would need it. However, living in Oklahoma, she thought she might never have that opportunity. But a new work position brought her to Washington two years ago, and she realized her chance had finally come. “The idea of donating had been in my head for about ten years,” she said. “The opportunity never aligned until now.”
Barbara had seen the great success of a similar transplant exchange last December and felt compelled to participate. “I was especially drawn to Georgetown University Hospital, because of its reputation and because I feel a strong connection to its mission.”
Barbara’s own family experience also made a difference. “My mother lost a kidney when she was young, and she lived a long, vibrant life, so I had a personal understanding that it would all be alright. Both my parents instilled in me a strong faith and a desire to give back, so this seemed very fitting.”
She is not eager to be seen as heroic. In fact, Barbara will tell you that she is actually the recipient of a great gift: the opportunity to help another person. “I am simply grateful for the chance to improve someone’s life,” she says. “This was meant to be.”
