Northern Kentucky doctor honored for donating kidney to a child in need
By Brian Hamrick
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EDGEWOOD, Ky. (WLWT) — Dr. Laura Barczewski, a physician at St. Elizabeth Hospital, donated a kidney to a child she has never met, demonstrating the true spirit of giving.
Her journey began when she saw a sign in Fort Thomas advertising that a child needed a kidney. Although she was not a match for that particular child, she decided to donate her kidney to another child in need.
“I love it,” Barczewski said, expressing her passion for her work.
“It’s different every day,” she added, highlighting the variety in her daily routine.
Barczewski explained her decision, saying, “I was running just in Fort Thomas down the street, and there was a little sign, that was advertised that a kid needed a kidney.”
Despite not being a match for the child on the sign, Barczewski was determined to help. “But I didn’t know that kid. And so I’m like, well, I’ll just I’ll give it to another kid,” she said.
Reflecting on her donation, Barczewski said, “It’s cool. I mean, I’m connected with somebody forever, even if I don’t know them. You know, that’s very neat.”
St. Elizabeth Hospital recognized her selfless act with the “You Inspire Me” award. “You chose to donate one of your kidneys to a child in need,” the award citation noted, acknowledging her generosity.
When asked if her daily work as a doctor was enough, Barczewski responded, “Well, Yes, but I do believe that if you have a lot of blessings in your life and good things in your life, then you should do something with it.”
While many people mark organ donor on their driver’s license, Barczewski marked it on her calendar, making a life-changing decision. She received the most votes in the history of St. Elizabeth’s “You Inspire Me” award. Although she has not met the child who received her kidney, she has left the door open for a possible meeting in the future.
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