Twenty-five years ago, Katie Costello’s kidney failed. If I can use the word “fortunate,” she was; her brother’s blood type matched hers and she received the gift of his kidney. She could now resume her life with a husband and an adopted daughter.

We always ask – why are good people faced with more than one tragedy? Does it make a person stronger in his or her faith, and does it reinforce our ties with our family and friends?

As Katie’s everyday life resumed in Milton, Mass., with a wonderful marriage, a beautiful 1½-year-old daughter and a successful job, another tragedy occurred: Katie’s husband died of a heart attack in his 40s. Her faith and strength were tested again. With prayers and the love of family (Katie’s parents live in Yarmouth) and friends, her strength was renewed.

It is said that God only gives us as much in life as we can handle – Katie’s gift of life today is another kidney.

Almost 1½ years ago, her kidney failed. She has undergone dialysis for almost a year, and as of this writing, Katie maintains no kidney function, is on dialysis and needs our help. She has been on two donor lists for more than a year.

If anyone is willing to inquire about a blood-type match, please contact:

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Tracy Brann, R.N.

Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center Transplant Institute

110 Francis St.

Boston, MA 02215

Phone: 617-632-9851 or email: tbrann@bidmc.harvard.edu. The website is www.bidmc.org/transplant.

A kidney donation will allow Katie at 52 to live her life fully, to see her daughter walk down the aisle on her wedding day and to see her grandchildren.

May you be blessed abundantly during the Christmas season and throughout your own full life.

Patricia A. Clements

Yarmouth


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