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Just in time for National Sisters Day, two sisters share a bond inspired by their mother

After experiencing kidney failure for the second time in her life, Carol was thankful when her sister Janet stepped in to donate her kidney.

August 03, 2023
Carol Kenny and Janet Hill sitting on hospital bed, seeing each other for the first time after surgery

Just in time for National Sisters Day, two sisters share a new bond in life inspired by their mother. Cape Coral resident, Carol Kenny is now dialysis-free because of her sister, Janet Hill, and excited for the next chapter in her life living with her new kidney.  

In October 1994, Carol received a kidney donation from her mother due to kidney failure. Fast forward 29 years, when she started experiencing kidney failure for the second time in her life and began hemodialysis treatment 12-hours a day at home for about 4 months.  With the support of her family, she remained working full time for the City of Cape Coral, knowing that she would eventually need to begin her transplant journey again.

Unbeknownst to Carol, Janet started inquiring about being her kidney donor. The Transplant Center at HCA Florida Largo Hospital guided Janet through the living donation process from her home in California. Her commitment to the process was incredible; the various appointments, testing, and preparation to be a donor took approximately 2 months. One Sunday evening, Janet called to let Carol know that she had completed the testing process and her kidney could be a suitable match! 

“I don’t think I did anything that any sister in the same situation wouldn’t have done. I’m just lucky that I was healthy enough to be Carol’s donor. I’m also proud to have my kidney pick up where our mother’s kidney left off” shared Janet Hill.

On June 29, Carol and Janet both underwent surgery, Carol receiving one of her sister’s kidneys, immediately feeling better with her sister’s kidney — it’s given her new life. “The final minute was true sisterhood! I thank her every day!” shared Carol Kenny.

We are committed to helping more people learn how to become organ donors and adding more donors throughout the state. Learn more by visiting our transplant services page and reading our 'how to become an organ donor' section.

Donate Life flag seen flying outside through hospital window
Carol Kenny and Janet Hill embrace before transplant surgery
Published:
August 03, 2023
Location:
HCA Florida Largo Hospital

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