After being diagnosed with stage 4 kidney disease, Jose’s friend Marcus got tested and found out he was a match.
SAN ANTONIO — The bond of friendship got a lot stronger after a man was diagnosed with stage 4 kidney disease and his friend donated a kidney to save his life.
“My life hasn’t changed much — except that I have a scar to remind me of the difference I made in someone’s life. That’s the real gift,” says Marcus Compton, living kidney donor.
April 2 is is Living Donor Day, giving folks an opportunity to celebrate the lifesaving gifts made by living donors.
Marcus Compton moved from Dallas to Fredericksburg 10 years ago and that is where he met Jose Aguirre. Their friendship grew over the years as their families became closer during family gatherings, shared date nights, and mutual support. Then Jose’s life took a difficult turn when he was diagnosed with stage 4 kidney disease.
Marcus knew about Jose’s struggles and made the decision to get tested as a potential living donor. It turns out he was a perfect match.
The surgery was on November 13, 2024 at Methodist Hospital | Specialty and Transplant, and thankfully, the kidney transplant was successful.
Marcus’ decision to donate a kidney filled him with both excitement and nervousness.
“It was a huge thing for me. I had never had surgery before,” Marcus said. “But when I found out I was a match, I knew it was the right thing to do.”
Marcus said that the emotional and spiritual rewards were more than worth it in spite of the physical and mental challenges.
His experience also deepened his understanding of the importance of organ donation.
“I see how it changed Jose’s life, and now I want to advocate for others to become donors too,” Marcus said.
To learn more about the transplant services available at Methodist Hospital | Specialty and Transplant, please click here.
