Debbie Shearer didn’t plan on being an advocate for living kidney donors, but the universe…
Debbie Shearer didn’t plan on being an advocate for living kidney donors, but the universe works in mysterious ways. This mother of three became a living donor after her son, George, tragically passed away. Prior to his death, George made it known that he wanted to be an organ donor, but this turned out to not be possible due to the state of his organs at the time of his death.
Debbie knew what she had to do.
Four years after George’s death, carrying out the wish of her son set into motion a remarkable ripple of compassion that changed the lives of six families through a paired kidney donor chain coordinated through the Alliance for Paired Kidney Donation.
During an interview with Parade Magazine, where the living kidney donor chain was featured, Debbie said, “I just thought it would help my family heal. And I thought I was going to be doing something for one person, not a dozen!” We now feel like we have an extended family.
Debbie has since become an avid proponent of kidney donation, mentoring and guiding donors and sharing her story with the world to support others and encourage living organ donation.
In addition to her devotion to living kidney donor education, Debbie also brings a nearly-20-year role coordinating events and sponsor partner relationships with the PGA TOUR.
After years of working with thousands of volunteers, Debbie understands that there is typically a driving force that compels people to help others. Understanding the impact of volunteerism and the desire to further support her community, Debbie launched Parents with Hope, a support group for parents who have lost their young adult children.
Through her work, Debbie understands the power of community and is working with the Kidneys for Communities team to increase the living kidney donor pool.