Kidney donation an inspiring act of kindness

Would you donate your organs? It's a question often posed when considering organ donation upon death. Because we have two kidneys, some may donate one while still living to a loved one. Both options are selfless acts. But would you donate your kidney to a co-worker, choosing to live with one of two important organs for a person who is of no blood relation?

The answer to that question for Leigh Ann Colson was "yes."

A story in the 2014 HealthWatch magazine inserted into the Southeast Missourian told of this generosity. Colson worked at the Charleston, Missouri, courthouse for six years with Debbie Smoot. One was the circuit clerk and the other a probate clerk.

Smoot was told in 2012 that she faced kidney failure. She was put on a waiting list, though doctors said it could be three years before a kidney became available.

You can read the story in the magazine or online at semissourian.com/healthwatch, but to recap, Smoot was the beneficiary of her co-worker's donating a kidney. She told reporter Tyler Graef about how blessed she is to have this gift. "Every day I sit here and look across the office and thank God because she gave me back my life."

Are acts of kindness such as this inspire us. We commend Colson for this selfless decision.

This story also is a reminder of the importance of organ donation. We hope you consider becoming an organ donor. Many people live longer and more productive lives because others were thoughtful in making a donation.

Thank you to the many people who have made this decision.