Courage

Ann always smiles.

She was diagnosed with diabetes as a child, and the disease ravaged her body, causing kidney failure and debillitating neuropathy in her feet.

She was optimistic.

As a young adult, she had a double transplant, kidneys and pancreas. It was a long ride up the creek with only a small, stubborn paddle. Her body struggled.

She was grateful for a second chance.

For a few weeks recently, she limped around the office wearing a splint on her foot, which was encased in a soft boot. Her diabetes was cured by the transplant, but she must still deal with the damage it left behind. She shook off every offer of sympathy, instead using the opportunity to encourage us to be organ donors. She used her evenings to help educate college students about the importance of organ donation, and she enouraged others to become involved.

She is happy to be alive.

Ann always smiles.