TEMPLE, TX — According to National Kidney Foundation, more than 3,000 new patients are added to the kidney waiting list each month.
A 25 news exclusive story helped connect two families that now have a lot more in common than their battles with kidney related illnesses.
This time last year, Darius Joiner's kidney function was less than 20 percent.
His battle with stage 5 kidney disease completely changed his life.
Patty Caldwell was just one of many touched by Joiner's story when it first aired on 25 news just a year ago.
Caldwell knows all too well how it feels to see a loved one in pain. Her daughter, Paige, has suffered from kidney reflux for the majority of her life.
Caldwell donated one of her kidneys to Joiner in July.
"Felt amazing when Patty told us that she would be donating. It was a blessing," said Joiner.
Joiner took the time to tell us why this Thanksgiving he is so thankful to be alive.
"I'm back on my feet not missing a beat with my kids, my family," said Joiner. "Grateful for everything that's been done for me, all the support that everyone has shown me since day one."
Joiner's kidney function is now 99 percent.
After KXXV aired Joiner's story back in November, more than 100 people called the Baylor Scott and White transplant program and applied to be living kidney donors. Caldwell was just one of many who applied and she encourages others to do the same.
"I'd do it again in a heartbeat. I wish I could give more organs away," said Caldwell.
For more information, on how you too can get involved, click here.
