She donated one kidney...and saved two lives!

When soccer mom Molly Gray learned a team member’s dad needed a new kidney, she was among the first to offer one of hers. Unfortunately, she didn’t match. But that didn’t stop her from saving his life—and a second life as well

- Bill Holton

Molly Gray lay on her bed lazily scrolling Facebook until… “No!” she cried, when she read a post from her friend Dan Napoleon. I can’t believe I have to do this, but this is what it’s come to, he’d written. Dan explained that chronic hypertension and diabetes had left his kidneys so weak, he needed dialysis three times a week. But now that wasn’t enough. He needed a transplant. A living donor would be best, but his wife, Sharon, and other family members weren’t a match. If anyone would consider getting tested, let me know.

Molly’s son, Cooper, and Dan’s son, Brandon, played on the same traveling soccer league’s Team Celtics. Between practices and overnight trips, the kids’ parents were a tight-knit group of friends. Dan’s gentle spirit and larger-than-life personality made him one of Molly’s favorites. He was so active and full of life. I had no idea he is so sick, Molly thought.

And right then and there: Of course, I’ll get tested, the Yardley, Pennsylvania, middle school counselor and single mom of three typed.

Searching for a miracle

Molly wasn’t the only one to answer Dan’s call for help. His post was shared hundreds of times, and dozens of people across the country offered to get tested. But one by one, each was ruled out—including Molly.

“You and I aren’t the same blood type,” she told Dan at the next soccer practice.

“That’s okay,” Dan told her. “A friend in Arizona got tested, and we’re compatible. She’s giving me a kidney.”