Community Rallies to Support Local Woman in Need of Kidney Transplant
Tybee Island, Georgia, is buzzing with emotion and a sense of urgency as the tight-knit community comes together to support one of their own. Julia Dyer Strickland, a beloved local who has faced the challenges of a genetic disease for years, is now in critical need of a kidney transplant. With both of her kidneys failing, Julia’s friends and neighbors are stepping up to help her find a donor and spread awareness about organ donation.
Waiting for a Lifesaving Match
Although Julia calls Savannah home now, there is still a special place in her heart for Tybee Island where she has many friends. Currently, she is on a waitlist for a kidney donor in Charleston, but the realities of the wait can feel daunting. As her friend, Donnie Phillips, puts it, “Her kidneys are starting to malfunction real bad. So she’s in dire straits.”
The statistics around kidney transplant waitlists paint a sobering picture. According to Dr. Angello Lin, Chief of transplant surgery at the Medical College of Georgia, “There’s just not enough donor in the United States to transplant everybody who’s waiting on the list.” The average waiting time can range anywhere from three to nine years, which is why Julia’s friends are eager to do everything they can to speed up the process and save her life.
Kidney Benefit Coming Up
This weekend, the community has organized a Kidney Benefit for Julia, which is set to take place at the Tybee American Legion on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. This event aims not only to help Julia find a potential kidney match but also to educate the public about the kidney donation process and its benefits.
“She’s having a tough time breathing, of course, and she’s just a wonderful person,” Phillips shared. “If you ever get to know Julia, you wouldn’t hesitate to come to her rescue. And that’s what we’re asking people—to just come here and learn all about their kidney donation program.”
An Open Invitation
Everyone is encouraged to attend the benefit, as even if you aren’t a match for Julia, you could be the perfect match for someone else who desperately needs a kidney. The event seeks to foster a sense of community and sharing, which is truly heartwarming. “It’s not a very difficult procedure,” Phillips reassures attendees, emphasizing that learning how to become a donor could change lives.
The Power of Community
As the event draws near, the community spirit is palpable. Friends and family of Julia are excited about how they can potentially transform her life through this initiative. It’s a reminder of the power of community and kindness, especially in times of need. Julia’s story is, at its core, a call to action.
So, if you’re free this Saturday, consider stopping by the Tybee American Legion to participate in a cause that could save a life. It’s more than just an event; it’s an opportunity to learn, give back, and perhaps even become a hero for someone in need!
