Jennifer Giustiniani’s unexpected click led to a lifelong connection with Aileen Berran

Jennifer Giustiniani woke up one morning early and found a strange email from the NHL. It was asking her if she would donate her kidney. She clicked on the link mindlessly. At the same time, a girl, Aileen Berran, was struggling to live as both her kidneys had shut down. These two individuals were unknown to each other, but one simple click united them for life. This is a real story of kindness, bravery, and one single life-altering choice.
Jennifer Giustiniani is marketing for the NHL. She got an email at 6 a.m. one day from the donor program of the league. There was only one link in the email stating “Click on ‘I’d like to donate my kidney?” Jennifer Giustiniani clicked on the link out of curiosity. She filled out a form. She didn't think much about it, but that click would mean something incredible very soon.

Far away, Aileen Berran, a fourteen-year-old who enjoyed sports, was tired and ill. She had rashes on her legs and could not breathe easily when playing softball. She initially thought she was stressed or just unwell. But when she went to see the doctor, the news was shocking, both kidneys had failed. She was forced to start dialysis immediately, which was painful and tiring. The only way she could return to a normal life was through a kidney transplant.
Jennifer Giustiniani did not know Aileen Berran. But when she brought her test results telling her that she was a perfect match, she did not hesitate. She offered to donate one of her kidneys. Though a bit apprehensive, she said, “Why not just play the odds?” The transplant procedure was done in December, and everything went well. Aileen was offered a second lease of life.
After the surgery, Aileen Berran recovered swiftly. She smiled once more, went back to school, and started fantasizing about what her future held. Jennifer Giustiniani recovered speedily too. The two ladies finally met each other, and an immediate connection was made. They never spoke before the donation, but now they refer to one another as family.
Jennifer Giustiniani reports that she feels blessed that she was able to help the person. She did not do it for the publicity or the limelight, she followed her heart. Aileen Berran reports that she will always be thankful and hopes she can make people more aware of kidney donation
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