He successfully donated to Kate in 2017 and have since expanded their family twice by adding their dog Mosby and welcoming the birth of their daughter Adelynn in 2020.
Brian says that donating to his wife Kate has meant the world to him. They had plans to start a family after getting married five years ago but Kate's kidney complications put a pause on things. "Since donating, I have watched my wife be able to get back to being active and seeing her with Addie now, makes all the hard times feel better," he shares.
As an active family, their weekend adventures include hiking, walking, swimming and finding new playgrounds for Adelynn. Picnics in the park are also a family favourite.
An interview with Kate, kidney recipient
Tell us what it was like for you to have a baby post-transplant.
I am beyond thankful that Brian's gift of a kidney allowed us to start our family, as we were delayed for a few years due to my health. I love that my body allowed me to carry Adelynn until almost 36 weeks and even though my kidney numbers started to change close to the end, they have all gone back to where they were now.
There are always unknowns and fears when doing something for the first time but I think I managed to have a pretty typical pregnancy even though I was considered high-risk – just a couple more blood tests and ultrasounds than normal.
Tell us about your relationship with Adelynn and what it means to be a mother.
I always knew I wanted to be a mother. My journey to become one was not typical but it allows me to appreciate how special Adelynn is. I often find myself just staring at her, and thinking what a miracle she is. I look forward to sharing with her, all about our journey and how thankful I am to be her mom.
What does it mean for you to work for the Kidney Foundation of Canada?
I feel fortunate every day to help other kidney patients across BC. My job is very rewarding as I am able to utilize my own personal experience of kidney disease and transplant when helping others. Not every person gets to do the job they are passionate about!
What does organ donation mean to you?
You have the ability to give, or leave a gift of a second chance at life - it is the most selfless gift a person can give.
Living donors can see the difference it makes in someone's life and deceased donors can leave a legacy. It means everything to me as the wonderful gift of organ donation allowed me to move forward with my life and give back to help others.
