Dialysis survivor champions organ donation through children's book
Kendall Brunson's journey from a grueling seven-and-a-half years on dialysis to a life renewed with a transplanted kidney is not just a personal triumph; it's a powerful call to action, particularly during Donate Life Month. The Willingboro, New Jersey, resident, a veteran and director of the Pemberton Township Recreation Department, is now using his experience to inspire children and demystify organ donation through a newly published children’s book.
A decade defined by machines, now defined by giving
Brunson's story is one of resilience. After his kidneys failed, he endured years tethered to a dialysis machine, a reality he describes as “at times scary, depressing, sometimes lively.” The arrival of a new kidney in 2019 marked a profound shift – a return of mobility and freedom. “You’re not tied to a machine,” he stated simply, underscoring the transformative power of his transplant.
But Brunson’s newfound freedom hasn't led to complacency. Driven by a desire to give back and honor his father's military service, he channeled his experience into “Kidneys Kount: The Chronicles of Kenny and Kimora,” a children's book aimed at explaining the complexities of kidney transplantation in an accessible and engaging way. The book, featuring personified kidneys named Kenny and Kimora, is designed to be a valuable resource for families and pediatric patients navigating the organ donation process.
Rick Hasz, president and CEO of the Gift of Life Donor Program, which facilitated Brunson's transplant, lauded the book's potential. “It really warms our hearts to know that most transplant recipients want to be able to give back after they’ve received that gift of life,” he remarked, highlighting the ripple effect of Brunson’s generosity.
Beyond his literary efforts, Brunson, a retired Army veteran, is eager to resume playing his trumpet at local military ceremonies, a pastime sidelined by his health challenges. And, in a heartwarming culmination of a fifteen-year friendship and prayer partnership, Brunson recently married Tiffany, who, he admits, encouraged him to finally finish and publish his book. “I feel elated,” Tiffany shared, “because he has such brilliant ideas.”
Brunson's story is a testament to the enduring human spirit and the profound impact of organ donation. He is not just celebrating a new lease on life; he is actively building a future where more lives are saved, one book and one note at a time.