Man Finds Kidney Donor While Hiking Provo’s Y Mountain

https://news.intermountainhealth.org/provo-woman-gives-kidney-to-stranger-she-met-hiking-pair-reunite-with-intermountain-health-transplant-team-to-offer-thanks/

A Life-Changing Encounter: How One Woman’s Act of Kindness Saved a Life

Krissy Miller’s chance encounter on a mountain trail changed two lives forever. In October 2022, Krissy saw a Facebook post about a man, Shiller Joseph, who urgently needed a kidney transplant. His story hit close to home, as her own husband battles Type 1 diabetes. She couldn’t ignore the need and started the process to become a living organ donor.

Although initially she didn’t meet the health requirements, Krissy didn’t give up. A year later, after working on her health, she felt inspired to try again. While hiking Y Mountain in Utah, Krissy crossed paths with Shiller and his wife. They struck up a conversation, and it turned out they both shared the same blood type: O+. Feeling a deep sense of spiritual guidance, Krissy offered her kidney.

Tests confirmed that Krissy was a “good match” for Shiller, and on April 2, 2023, they both underwent successful surgeries at Intermountain Medical Center. Shiller had been on dialysis for three years and was running out of options. Thanks to Krissy’s selfless act, he received the kidney transplant he desperately needed.

Krissy and Shiller’s story is a powerful reminder of how acts of kindness can change lives and the importance of organ donation. As of now, over 90,000 people are waiting for kidney transplants, and stories like theirs are crucial in raising awareness.