Savannah's Story
Learn about Savannah's journey, her strength, and how a living kidney donor could change her life.
Meet Savannah
Savannah Brooke Otey is a recent graduate from Madison Southern High School in Berea, Kentucky. She is a kind and compassionate young woman with a heart for helping others, and a strong faith that carries her through every season of life. She loves animals, enjoys painting, and loves to cook. Savannah's dream is to attend Eastern Kentucky University and become a NICU nurse, caring for the tiniest patients and their families during some of life's most important moments. Those who know her describe her as resilient, compassionate, and thoughtful. She brings warmth to the people around her and has a genuine heart for serving others.
The Diagnosis
Earlier this year, Savannah began feeling tired and unwell. After multiple doctor visits and tests, her family searched for answers, never imagining what they were about to hear. Then came the phone call that changed everything. Her doctors urged her to go to the hospital immediately. There, she was diagnosed with NPHS1, a rare genetic kidney disease that had been present since birth but had gone undetected for years. By the time it was discovered, her kidneys had already suffered severe damage, leaving her with stage 5 chronic kidney disease. Today, Savannah undergoes dialysis three times each week while waiting for the life-changing gift of a kidney transplant.
Why a Living Donor?
A living kidney donor offers Savannah the greatest opportunity for a healthier future. While dialysis is keeping her alive, a kidney transplant could help her regain her strength, pursue her dream of becoming a NICU nurse, and experience the milestones every young adult looks forward to. Living donor kidney transplants often last longer and can start working right away. Many people are surprised to learn that healthy individuals can live full, active lives with just one kidney. Every potential donor undergoes a thorough medical evaluation to help ensure donation is safe for them. If you've ever wondered whether you could help save a life, taking the first step to learn more could make all the difference for Savannah.
How To Become A Living Donor
It starts with a simple, confidential screening. Completing a living donor questionnaire through the University of Kentucky Transplant Center doesn't obligate you to donate. If you're a potential match, additional testing ensures donation is safe for you. Every inquiry is confidential. Your willingness to learn more could help give Savannah the future she deserves.
Could You Be the One?
One simple decision to learn more could change Savannah's life forever. Learn more about the living donor process through UK HealthCare. The evaluation is free, confidential, and done at your own pace. Taking the first step does not obligate you to donate, but it could start something incredible for someone in need.