Maine Mother Donates Kidney to Save Son’s Life for a Second Time

In a remarkable act of maternal love and devotion, a Maine mother has saved her son’s life for a second time. Susan Gross donated her kidney to her son Stephen Gross, who has struggled with kidney disease since early childhood.

Stephen first experienced kidney failure at the age of three, a complication from an illness that left him dependent on dialysis and vulnerable to ongoing health issues. When his kidney function failed again two years ago, Susan made the life-changing decision to donate her own kidney.

“I think it’s that instant of, ‘okay, I’ve got to protect my child,’” Susan said.

The process was anything but simple. Stephen had to be medically cleared to receive a transplant, and Susan had to undergo months of testing to determine compatibility. After nine months of evaluations, she was found to be a perfect match.

“Dialysis keeps you from dying, but it’s hard. It’s really, really hard,” Susan explained of the long wait.

The transplant was performed successfully at Massachusetts General Hospital. Today, Stephen is healthy and grateful for the gift.

“I make sure I spend time thanking you and the kidney for everything that it has given me,” Stephen said in a phone interview. “That’s the ultimate freedom.”

Susan has continued to live an active life after the donation. Inspired by her experience, she joined other donors at the 2024 Transplant Games of America in Alabama, participating as a competitive swimmer.

“It is truly an honor that I can be a part of this,” she said.

The story of Susan and Stephen Gross stands as a powerful testament to family, sacrifice, and the life-changing impact of organ donation.

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Credit: CNN Newsource