Staci's Blog

6/21/2009 6:24:02 PM

Crew member Staci Smith has an incredible story. She received a kidney transplant from Kristen Weckworth in July 2008. “It hasn’t even been a year yet. It’s great, I feel fabulous. I had 3 hours of sleep last night…it’s been so exciting.” Along the RAAM route she’s the official organ donation and transplant ambassador. She passes out cards about TDL and organ donation in stores along the way and is proud to tell people that TDL stands behind its mission. The team is composed of riders and crew who have donated, received, or other wise been affected by the need for a transplant.

That’s why Smith came along on TDL’s RAAM 2009 adventure. “I was diagnosed in 1995 – I went on dialysis in 2003, grudgingly, and it was just so amazing having this come about the way it has – my sister talking to Kristen’s sister…The energy of what I have now compared to what I had before is just incredible. I am so honored to be part of this whole thing and to share with people so that lives can be changed and lives can be changed.”

Then she jokes. “And I had to bring Kristen’s other kidney along so she’d have both.”

Now Smith is sharing driving and navigation duties for TDL Give Hope.

“The significance to me is that I couldn’t be out here last time. I was talking to Kristen and [casually] said I always wanted to drive across country.” Kristen said, here’s your opportunity! “I just believe by grace that I’ll be able to be here and help.”

Thanks Staci!

You can read more about Staci’s and Kristen’s incredible story here: http://ourtransplant.blogspot.com/).