For Immediate Release
September 6, 2024
From the Office of Communications
Phone: 803.435.4435
Clarendon County School District Celebrates the Selfless Act of WGE Teacher, Ms. Britney Shady
Walker Gamble Elementary school teacher donates kidney to save a life
Clarendon County, SC— September 6, 2024 — Clarendon County School District is proud to celebrate the incredible story of Ms. Britney Shady, a dedicated teacher at Walker-Gamble Elementary (WGE), whose recent Facebook post has captured the hearts of many. Ms. Shady’s unwavering compassion and selflessness have become an inspiration for our entire school community.
Ms. Shady shared her journey of becoming a living kidney donor through the Living Donor Exchange Program in an effort to help a little girl named Haven, whom she met and fell in love with during a visit. Haven, who has been in the hospital for almost a year, desperately needed a kidney transplant. Moved by the situation and led by her faith, Ms. Shady felt called to help.
In her post, Ms. Shady detailed her emotional experience, from undergoing extensive evaluations and tests to learning that she wasn’t a match for Haven. Despite this, she didn’t give up. Through the Living Donor Exchange Program, she ultimately helped find a donor for Haven, while donating her own kidney to a recipient in Utah. Thanks to her bravery and determination, Haven received a life-saving kidney on August 16th, and Ms. Shady underwent surgery just a few weeks later, on September 3rd.
Reflecting on her students, Ms. Shady also expressed her deep love for the children with disabilities in her classroom, noting how much they have impacted her life. She described her colleagues as a "work family," offering unending support, prayers, and comfort throughout her journey.
Ms. Shady's story is a reminder of the power of compassion, resilience, and faith. She encourages others to explore the Living Donor Exchange Program and consider becoming a living donor to help those in need of life-saving transplants.
"We are incredibly blessed to have Ms. Shady as part of the Walker-Gamble Elementary family," said Superintendent Dr. Shawn Johnson. "Her story of selflessness and love for others is an example for us all, and we are proud to share her journey with our community."
Clarendon County School District celebrates Ms. Britney Shady's heroic act and recognizes the deep impact she continues to have on her students, colleagues, and the community.
For more information on the Living Donor Exchange Program, please visit the Kidney Donor Foundation website.
A printable version of the press release can be found HERE.
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