The past six months have been a journey of healing and second chances for Nova Scotia’s Cheryl Flamand and Laura Fowler.
In January, doctors told Flamand she was down to three per cent kidney function.
That’s when her best friend Fowler, who was a perfect match, offered up her kidney.
“This is one of the most extravagant gifts I’ve ever given, and I’m very happy about that,” says Fowler.
Six months after the successful transplant, both are in good health.
“I feel amazing. My life is back,” says Flamand. “Now I get up in the morning and can do anything I want. It’s completely life-changing what Laura has done for me, it’s amazing.”
Besides weekly check-ups, she says her life feels brand new.
“The strength I have now is much larger than I had before. Walking up hills I couldn’t do. I couldn’t walk up a flight of stairs. I can do those things now without challenge, which is amazing. I even started playing slow pitch again, and I can run the bases. Last year, I couldn’t even run to first base,” she says.
Fowler says one of her greatest joys was recently celebrating their 40-year high-school reunion together.
“To see Cheryl standing there glowing was tear-jerking. It just made it all worth it. I knew it was worth it. I knew this was something that was supposed to be. And to see her out there with her grandkids and all that, just fills my heart with all kinds of joy,” says Fowler.
For the duo, it’s proof a 40-year friendship can truly stand the test of time, and that some gifts are priceless.
“I don’t think anybody should be afraid of giving. If you can help somebody in any way, do it. It doesn’t have to be a kidney.”
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