THE ULTIMATE GIFT
FOUNDER, BELLE COTTON'S STORY
What compelled you to get tested to become a donor?
My son, Dannell was very ill and he needed a kidney. For three years, I sat in the dialysis center three times a week with my son and I saw people not make it home. My son didn't have a sibling match so I knew I needed to try. I started the process right away & got discouraged because the wait time was almost a three year process.
How did you feel when you received the call informing you that you were a match?
After waiting three months, I was over-whelmed with joy. At this point, my son had become so sick and we had so many dark days - I was just happy and anxious.
What major lifestyle changes did you have to make to prepare yourself?
I was given a timeline to naturally lose weight and eat healthy. There are no quick-fix diets permitted. I walked about 10 miles a day, drank a ton of water and limited my meat intake. I ate a ton of vegetables, followed doctors orders to a "T" and did it all. I did it though! I was motivated because I just wanted to see my son live.
What was your biggest fear?
I just wanted the process to be successful. I worried that it would fail. I was worried that he would receive the kidney and it would it would be rejected by his body. Dannell's body has been through so much, I was just worried that it would fail.
What inspired you to keep going?
I wanted my son to live. Whatever it took as long as he lived, even if it were at my expense; I just wanted him to keep on.
How has this experience changed you?
Its changed my whole world, helps me to value life and health. To not put things into my body that will defile my body. I've always been a caring and attentive person, but this experience inspired me to encourage others to become donors.
What words would you share with others considering this journey?
It was a great feeling to know that I was able to be a part of giving my son life again and seeing him do well and have another chance. It was just a great feeling. If I had to do it all over again, I wouldn't think twice about it. If I could do it again, I would be a donor for anyone.
THE DANNELL FRYAR FOUNDATION INC.
The Dannell Fryar Foundation Inc honors the life and memory of Dannell Fryar. Through public works, education and service we continue to build a lifetime legacy of helping organ donors and recipients in their transplant journey. Though his life was short, his fight will forever be honored as we become the hands & feet of servitude in helping others.
Our History
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Our History
The Dannell Fryar Foundation, Inc. was founded in Sanford, FL in 2013. Seeing a need for energetic, nonprofit work in this area, we formed our organization to provide solutions to help both donors and recipients regardless of where they are in the process - from prevention to transplant. We've consistently grown since then, all thanks to the helping hands of both of local and medical communities.
Our Founder
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Our History
Ms. Belle Cotton is a three-time transplant donor and local advocate for transplant donors and recipients. Ms. Cotton's intimate involvement in the transplant community & extensive program knowledge afforded her the opportunity to create strong partnerships in the medical community & help countless families navigate the complexity of the transplant process.
TELL YOUR STORY
TELL YOUR STORY
TELL YOUR STORY
Want to share your transplant story? We want to hear about your experience in hopes of inspiring hope in others. If you're a donor or recipient; sharing your story could be life-changing.
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