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Transplant Donor And Recipient Celebrate Close Bond

  • August 1, 2005
  • Number of views: 2504
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From KSDK News, August 7, 2005

Cindy Herman and Matt Dieckhaus are about to sit side-by-side at the Cardinals-Braves game. Just six months ago, they lay on operating room tables simultaneously as Dieckhaus gave Herman one of his kidneys, and a chance at a new life.

Their story starts two years ago. Both were teachers at Clayton High. Herman''s own kidneys were being destroyed by 20 years of living with polycystic kidney disease.

Her doctors told her to ask around for a kidney donor. And one day in the lunch room she did, "He called me and said I talked with my wife and I''ve got your kidney."

After a wait of a few months, the transplant operation finally took place earlier this year.

"The average kidney weighs about a pound. Matt''s kidney, since Matt is such a large man, weighs two pounds, so actually getting his one kidney was like getting two normal kidneys," said Herman.

Matt Dieckhaus says even the prospect of undergoing major surgery didn''t change his mind, "I''m a person of faith and I believe that this was the right thing, that I was put in time and place to do and help a friend who''s blessed my life."

So Sunday, the two met at Busch Stadium, where they celebrated the eighth annual Transplant Day at the Ballpark. The two hope their story serves as an example for the community.

Dieckhaus says, "I''d just encourage anybody to experience the process. Be tested and find out and let your heart be your guide."

Herman adds, "Just to make the public aware of what a wonderful gift it is. I mean Matt gave me the best gift he could possibly give me. He gave me my life back."

Transplant Day at the Ballpark is sponsored by Barnes-Jewish Hospital and Mid-America Transplant Services.

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