By: Richard L. Smith
Nine years ago, Ms. Destiny Charles received a lifesaving kidney transplant that not only saved her life but also set her on a path to save others.
Officials at NJ Sharing Network said Friday that she marks her 9th anniversary since that pivotal surgery and reflects on her journey from a teenager battling a kidney disorder to an ICU nurse at Cooper University Hospital.
RLS Media learned that Destiny's Health challenges began in 2005 during her teen years, just as she was preparing to start her freshman year at Plainfield High School.
A routine physical revealed protein in her urine, leading to a diagnosis of minimal change syndrome.
Over the years, her condition deteriorated, requiring her to start dialysis at the age of 21 while she was a full-time student at Rutgers University and working full-time.
Despite the hardships, Destiny remained hopeful, a mindset that helped sustain her until 2015, when her aunt participated in a paired kidney exchange that ultimately provided Destiny with a compatible donor.
NJ Sharing Network officials said the transplant surgery on March 17, 2015, was a success, ushering in a new chapter of health and vitality for Destiny.
With her new lease on life, Destiny was inspired by her dialysis nurses and motivated by her personal experience to pursue a career in nursing.
She completed nursing school and now works in the intensive care unit at Cooper University Hospital, where she brings a unique empathy and understanding to her role, thanks to her own medical history.
Destiny is also a passionate advocate for organ donation, working with the NJ Sharing Network to promote awareness and registration for organ and tissue donation. Her story is a powerful testament to the lifesaving impact of organ donation and the resilience of the human spirit.
In her own words, Destiny shares, "Every day is a gift. I have been given a second chance to live my best life and offer hope to others waiting for lifesaving transplants." Her story is not just about overcoming medical challenges; it is about thriving in their aftermath.
After her transplant, Destiny's life flourished. She was married in 2020 and enjoyed traveling the world with her husband, Keon Charles. Their travels have taken them to places like Dubai, Greece, Cuba, and the Caribbean islands.
The United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) reports that over 100,000 Americans are currently waiting for a lifesaving transplant.
Destiny's story highlights the critical need for more registered organ and tissue donors. For those inspired by her journey, information on becoming a donor is available at www.NJSharingNetwork.org.