My Kidney Donation Story: Ryan Singh

We humans are individually unique yet collectively beautiful—just like the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis). While each magnetic field interacts with charged particles from the sun to emit dazzling colors, collectively, the presence of these rays mesmerizes us. Each of us has the ability to do wonders, and collectively, we can continue to shine the light for others—such as for those in need of living organ donations.

Working in the medical field, I have always been aware of living organ donation. When the opportunity arose to be a light for someone in their most challenging time, I didn’t hesitate. In April 2024, I started the process of becoming a non-directed (anonymous) living kidney donor. After undergoing comprehensive screening, testing, and matching, in early January 2025 I underwent laparoscopic surgery and donated my kidney to an individual in need at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville through the National Kidney Registry’s Voucher Program.

One month post-surgery, I have recovered well, with no complications, and I am eternally blessed that God has used me as a part of his healing grace for the anonymous recipient. Words alone cannot express my emotion and gratitude for this entire process. It has been a humbling experience to give someone a second chance—a renewed sense of joy and hope—allowing my light of kindness to shine upon them just like the Northern Lights shine in the sky.

As we all have a calling and sense of purpose in this amazing world, it is important for us to reflect on how we can give to others altruistically. If you have the ability to give your time, monetary support, appreciation, comfort, love, or even an organ, please consider doing so to those in great need. The shining light that exists within humanity is based on our connections, relationships, and supporting each other. While we can’t always choose our beginnings or ends, we can choose who we are and what we give in the moments in between.

Special thanks to:

• My dear Mama who has been my biggest supporter throughout my life.
• The National Kidney Registry’s Donor Shield program and the National Living Donor Assistance Center for their financial support throughout my donation process, which helped defray my costs and eliminate financial barriers to donating.
• The entire medical team at Presbyterian Hospital in Albuquerque, NM, for their unending support and exceptional care throughout my donation experience.
• The living donors before me who inspired me to become a donor.
• Any future living donors out there—let’s keep shining the light for others for years to come!

About the Author

Ryan works as a clinical and community health registered dietitian in Soldotna, Alaska. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with nature, from long-distance trail running with the moose to chasing the Northern Lights and enjoying all the beauty Alaska has to offer. He is a dedicated advocate for organ donation, as every individual deserves a second chance and we all have the opportunity to increase our faith in humanity. He has only one regret in life: not having more kidneys to give!