Friends 'On a whole different level'

By Richie Ann Ashcraft

December 13, 2006

Debi Youngerman and Karen Tedesco were acquaintances for years before organ transplantation bonded them as friends.

"You just have this connection with other transplant recipients," Youngerman said. "It's a deeper connection. We're friends on a whole different level now."

Youngerman had a kidney transplant 18 years ago. She underwent dialysis at St. Mary's Hospital and waited a short time for a matching donor. She received surgery at Porter Adventist Hospital in Denver.

Youngerman credits her husband with being her support but the ear of a good girlfriend is always needed.

Tedesco received a new liver last year and is still recovering. She received blood transfusions and the new organ from University of Colorado Hospital.

"It's been nice to have someone to talk to," said Tedesco of their friendship. "I call her when I'm having my moments."

They discuss everything from insurance and financial worries to how the anti-rejection medications they each must take daily affects their bodies.

It has been a difficult year for Tedesco and she is thankful for their friendship.

"It's been so hard," she said. "Karen and I just understand each other and we know how to talk to each other as women."

Youngerman understands what a life-changing ordeal organ transplantation surgery can be, especially in the beginning.

She also knows organ donation can have a positive effect on lives and it gets easier.

"It just brings everyone closer," Youngerman said. "It's an amazing gift."

"I just thank God every day for the day because I am here," Tedesco said.

Copyright © 2006 Cox Newspapers, L.P. - The Daily Sentinel - Our Partners.

This article posted January 8, 2007.