Judges Derek Mosley and JoAnn Eiring have a special connection that goes beyond the bench.

In 2014, Derek was diagnosed with end-stage renal disease. One of his kidneys was shutting down and he needed a transplant to survive. Already his colleague and close friend, JoAnn got tested to see if she could donate her kidney and save Derek’s life.

“I was brought up that it’s better to give than get, and who wouldn’t help their friend,” says JoAnn.

After Derek spent two years going through dialysis, they finally received the news that JoAnn was a direct match. In July 2016, Derek received his new kidney from JoAnn, and he immediately returned to full health.

“That first Christmas, for the first time in two years, I was able to see my kids open their gifts,” says Derek. “I texted JoAnn and thanked her. It was just an emotional experience.”

Versiti is the first blood center in the United States to operate both a tissue bank and organ procurement organization. Working alongside families and our hospital partners, our dedicated teams help donors share their gifts with patients in need of another chance at life.

“Derek is feeling better, and I have my best friend back,” says JoAnn. “A part of me is in him. I can’t explain that feeling to make a difference in somebody’s life.”

Every 10 minutes, someone is added to the organ transplant waiting list.

Approximately 113,000 men, women, and children are waiting for life-saving organ transplants. One organ donor has the power to save up to eight lives and change the outcomes of someone’s world forever by giving them a second chance. Additionally, tissue donation can save and improve the lives of up to 75 people with their gifts. You can make a huge impact by registering as an organ and tissue donor.

Learn more about organ and tissue donation, or register as a donor at https://donatelifewisconsin.org.