Brenda Johnson

Type of Donation:      

Age and Location:      Age 74 – UCLA, Los Angeles, CA

Date of Transplant:           11/24/2017

Sponsor:                      Honored by Sanofi

BRENDA’S STORY

Brenda Johnson of Los Angeles grew up in a large, close-knit family with eleven siblings. Surrounded by love and laughter, she learned early on the values of resilience, gratitude, and togetherness. These traits that would carry her through the most challenging chapters of her life. Brenda built a wonderful life centered around her daughter and extended family, finding joy in the everyday moments that defined her deep sense of connection and optimism.

In her 50s, Brenda's life changed when she was diagnosed with a serious disease that threatened her health and future. Despite the challenges, she remained steadfast and hopeful. In 2009, she received the call that would change her life. A liver transplant was available. The transplant surgery was a success, and Brenda was deeply grateful for the second chance at life gifted to her by a generous deceased donor.

For several years, Brenda thrived, enjoying renewed health and precious time with her loved ones. But as time passed, new complications arose, and she learned she would need a kidney transplant. Once again, Brenda faced the uncertainty of waiting, never losing faith that the right match would come.

In November 2017, her surgeon at UCLA called with incredible news: a kidney from a deceased donor had become available. In a remarkable twist of fate, the kidney had initially been transplanted into another recipient, but that recipient could not accept it. The surgeon then offered the lifesaving gift to Brenda. She accepted, receiving her second miraculous gift of life.

Today, Brenda lives each day with immense gratitude, honoring her two donors through the way she lives—full of joy, family, and purpose. Her story is one of perseverance, the power of medicine, and above all, the generosity of organ donors who make miracles possible.