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Kyle was active in sports throughout his life, which is when his first knee injury occurred and was initially diagnosed merely as a contusion. The pain continued to get worse until Kyle went to see a physician where he was diagnosed with osteochondritis dissecans (OCD). He later ended up having an allograft transplantation in both knees.
“What I realized was that as much of a physical recovery it was, it was a mental transformation for me realizing how much a blessing your health is and how often you take it for granted,” said Kyle when he reflected on how the simplest things, such as taking a shower, can become a challenge. It was these day-to-day activities that made him appreciate being healthy.
When thinking about what the donor tissue meant to Kyle and how it changed his life, he finished with this thought: “It changed my attitude on life, appreciating every day, living in the moment, accepting the way things are and not trying to change that. It really changed my life.” Because of the donor grafts in both knees, Kyle is able to enjoy an active life again doing the things he enjoys most while attending Oregon University as a normal college student.
— KYLE, CARTILAGE RECIPIENT
"Now I am also thankful that your loved one has helped me to return to being a good dad, and every time I use that right hand to hold hers, or to play catch, or to mess up her hair, or to hold her tight, your loved one is a part of allowing me to do that."
"I can’t tell you how much it meant to hear that you are getting relief after your surgery and that our son Preston’s tissue donation was part of that success. Preston played shortstop and 2nd base. To hear that you are a 2nd baseman, too, made my husband and I smile knowing part of Preston lives on with you and your game."
"I want to personally thank you for your donation of growth cartilage, it has made a lasting impact on mine. It allowed me to walk, jump, and run as well as hit my goals. I hope to make him proud with my performances on the field."
"Evan’s decision to donate the gift of life was one of the proudest moments of my life. I think about it and smile every single time."
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