Our Stories

Mary’s Story


After Mary’s 14-year-old sister passed away from Wilson’s disease, her family was encouraged to undergo testing. Mary learned that she had the same rare genetic condition, which affects the body’s ability to process copper. For nearly 30 years, Mary was able to manage the disease. Then, in 2017, her liver began to fail. With her body shutting down, she was told she had only 48 to 72 hours to receive a transplant.

 

A donor—and the selfless decision of her family—gave Mary the second chance she urgently needed. Today, Mary says she is the fittest she has been in a long time. We met her at the 2026 Transplant Games of America in Denver, Colorado, where she reflected on her journey and the gratitude she feels for the donor and donor family who made her transplant possible. “If I had the chance to connect with my donor, I’d just say, ‘Thank you. You’re very special, and you will always be in my heart.’” Watch Mary’s Counting on You story and hear why she believes the impact of organ donation extends far beyond a single person.



Say "YES" to donation!

 

You can give the gift of life to someone like Becky.
Learn more about organ donation, then visit the National Donate Life Registry (U.S.) or the NHS Organ Donor Register (United Kingdom).



This story may contain general information relating to various medical conditions or their treatment. The information in this article is provided for informational purposes only and is not meant to be a substitute for advice provided by a doctor or other qualified health care professional. You should always consult with a doctor or other health care professional for medical advice or information about diagnosis and treatment.