Mary Cate Wilhelm

"I like to think of living kidney donors as "unicorns" because to me — and for those in need of a kidney transplant they are magical. These are people who want to save a life by giving an actual piece of themselves, one of their kidneys.

Every donor who walks through the door has a unique and inspiring story. They are doing it out of the kindness of their heart and don't expect anything in return. The majority of our living donors step forward because they know someone in need of a kidney transplant. They do it for family members or friends — sometimes even for people they've never met but saw their story on social media or on a sign. Then there are altruistic, non-directed donors who have heard of living kidney donation but they don't personally know anyone in need of a kidney. Their spare kidney goes to an anonymous patient on the kidney transplant waitlist. Many of our donors experience a positive emotional impact and go on to mentor other potential donors and help increase awareness of kidney donation.

We're working hard to raise awareness about living kidney donation. Many people are not aware that you can live a full life after donating a kidney. We may be born with two, but one kidney can truly do it all. Living donor kidneys last twice as long as kidneys from deceased donors and give transplant recipients earlier access to transplant as well as the best chance of a good outcome.

Every day I get to work with these selfless, generous, completely inspiring donors who are giving others a second chance at a better quality and longer life. I'm the only advanced practice provider working with the living kidney donor team, and I provide care for these donors from the beginning — starting with their evaluation and continuing after their surgery. I have the best job and am honored to take part in each donor's journey."