NIKKI: It was a mutual friend that connected us, put it on social media. We went to high school together. Ironically enough though, we had never even spoken. 

TORY: You thought I need blood. 

NIKKI: I did. I did and I was more than happy to donate blood and the mutual friend was like, well that's very sweet and kind, but we need a kidney. 

ANITA SITES: All recipients options are to either go on dialysis, remain on dialysis, wait for a deceased donor kidney, or seek a living donor kidney as an option. 

TORY: This is my second one. My father gave me my first one in 1999. When I went to the hospital the first time back in 97, I started dialysis and I thought it was just temporary, so I asked the doctor and he's like, no, you've got to do this until you get a transplant. 

NIKKI: I guess I took it personal. I would hope that if I was in the situation, that someone would step up and help in any way possible. 

ANITA SITES: I am really the first person that they speak with about their interest in being a donor, so I really walk them through the process, educate them throughout the process, and continue to follow them for a minimum of two years after they donate. 

NIKKI: Even though I was slightly nervous, because of the unknown and what was to come, I felt educated, comforted. It just seemed effortless sometimes, because everything just went the way it was supposed to I felt. Everything just went like clockwork. 

TORY: I feel great, I mean, awesome. Going-- able to work, go back to work, and do the things that-- I'm not tied to a dialysis machine, so I have my freedom back. 

ANITA SITES: So the great thing about living donation, the reason why we can do it and that I am so supportive of it is that really there should not be any lifestyle changes for donors. Once they've gotten past the acute recovery phase, which is a couple of weeks to a month or two, then they really are able to resume their normal activities. 

NIKKI: Hospital here, everybody, from beginning to the end of surgery was-- or until I was discharged was wonderful. I mean, I feel like myself again. I feel great and when we speak every month, at least every month, he texts me on the 29th of every month, thank you. Thinking of you. It's a great-- every month without fail and I think it's a great friendship. 

TORY: Love her. I mean, she saved my life and then she's my-- we were best friends, you know? I mean, it's amazing what she could do. 

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