Giving and Receiving
Before Cory needed a transplant, he understood the life changing gift of donation. In 2004, Cory selflessly donated a kidney to his son’s mother, who had developed kidney failure shortly after giving birth. For many years after, Cory had no significant medical history, and continued to live a normal, healthy and active life.
Everything changed in November 2021 when Cory was diagnosed with Covid-19 pneumonia, resulting in respiratory failure and damage to his lungs. Cory was transferred to Albany Medical Center in December 2021 to undergo treatment in hopes that his lungs would recover. After several weeks, Cory remained in critical condition and his lungs showed no signs of improvement. His only chance of survival was a double lung transplant.
In January 2022, the staff at Albany Medical Center transferred Cory to University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) where he was placed on the national transplant waiting list. Seven days later, Cory received his lifesaving double lung transplant.
Donor Day
On February 14, 2022, a day recognized as National Donor Day, Cory learned that there were donor lungs available and he received his lung transplant that same day. After his transplant, Cory faced a long recovery due to the severity of his illness.
“I was fortunate to have family and friends by my side every step of the way and beyond,” Cory said. “Prayers from so many across the country. Community members organizing fundraising events. The generosity of many made it possible for my family to remain with me at all times.”
A New Start
“We are forever grateful to his donor and their family,” Cory’s family says. “It was their unselfish act of kindness that has allowed Cory’s story of LIFE to continue.”
Since recovery, Cory spends his time kayaking, fishing, camping and snowshoeing with his son Brecken and significant other Lori. Cory recognizes the incredible gift of his transplant from his donor and donor family,and has the utmost respect for the new life it grants him.
“I would say to someone considering registering as an organ, eye and tissue donor to read my story. None of this would have been possible without a donor. Register today and make your loved ones aware of your decision regarding organ donation”
Cory (right) with his son, Brecken
