Mid-America Transplant Services

Martin S. Nixon

My name is Martin S. Nixon and I'm submitting this testimony to Mid-America Transplant Services in reference to my transplant.

In 1982, I was told my kidneys' function was around 10%. In 1985, it had declined to 5%. During this time, I met Dr. M. Weaver and he suggested to me the choices I had, (1) other treatment and (2) a transplant. He encouraged me to have a transplant. Unknown to me at the time was the organ donation program. Dr. Weaver took the initiative to enroll me in classes at the Mid-America Transplant Services on Wednesdays.

In June 1989, my kidneys had reached the point that I needed a transplant. I had been ready to go on the transplant list, and was put on the list around June 20, 1989. Thanks to organ donation, I was called for a transplant on July 3, 1989.

Later in that same year, 1989, after my transplant, I received a letter from Mark Whitlock at MTS, asking me if I would volunteer my services and time to the task of making citizens of the black community aware of organ donations. This I did and I went everywhere I was needed to help in this cause.

But, as luck would have it, my kidney gave out in 1994, I immediately thought that was the end. I returned to the chair (this is a term used to refer to dialysis treatment) in February 1994. I was still on the volunteer list and I did whatever I could. With going to the chair three times a week and still trying to work, I had little time, so whenever I was called, I went.

I then decided I did not want to go through another transplant. I was still seeing Dr. Weaver and he would ask me time and time again, and I guess he wore me down. I then decided to go back on the list. Thinking I would not be called or beeped. On August 31, 1997, I was called to receive the Gift of Life again.

I have had the Gift over a year, and everything is going well. Thanks to the organ donation, I'm still around. I owe a lot to the organ donation and also to God. I thank them everyday for being able to live a normal life. Thanks once again to organ donation, MTS, and God. They all know at MTS whatever I can do to help, I will make myself available; just call. They have truly made it possible for me to continue to work after 36 years and still counting.

Back to Memories & Miracles Home Page