Florida friends share a kidney in life-saving transplant

A profound friendship blossomed between two women who met at a church Bible study in Florida, culminating in a life-saving kidney donation. Sharon Figueroa, a mother of eight, underwent extensive medical evaluations in secret before donating a kidney to her friend, flight attendant Jenniffer Menco.

Menco had fulfilled her dream of becoming a flight attendant but faced a devastating health crisis when lupus began to damage her kidneys, leading to debilitating fatigue and pain. The disease progressed to kidney failure, forcing her to undergo ten-hour dialysis sessions multiple times a week, a stark contrast to her demanding international flight schedule.

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I felt more tired and had more pain.

Doctors informed Menco that she would need a transplant, a prospect she initially believed would be decades away, as she was under 30. For a year, dialysis sustained her life while she awaited a compatible organ. During this challenging period, she found solace in her faith but kept her health struggles private, confiding only in Figueroa.

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God, I didn't know that was going to be you.

Upon learning of Menco's condition, Figueroa felt compelled to act. Without informing Menco, she initiated the rigorous process of becoming a living donor. After months of medical tests, the results confirmed a remarkable compatibility between the two friends.

Menco was called to a doctor's office, unaware of the donor's identity. When Figueroa entered the room, Menco exclaimed in disbelief, "My God," recognizing her friend who then revealed she was the donor. The emotional reunion led to tears and hugs as Menco grappled with the magnitude of Figueroa's selfless act. Figueroa assured Menco that a person can retain one of their kidneys, leaving the other available should a closer family member ever need it.

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A person can keep what they have in case someone closer needs it someday.