My Kidney Donation Story: Daniella D’Angelo
On August 12, 2025, I donated my kidney through the National Kidney Registry’s Voucher Program on behalf of my mom.
My mom has lived with Type 1 diabetes her entire life. Over time, it began to take a toll on her kidneys. Eventually, she was told she would need to start dialysis very soon.
Her kidney doctor tried to delay it as long as possible because he was concerned that her heart might not be able to handle the strain. As her condition worsened, my sister and I knew our mom was in desperate need of help.
I knew very little about living kidney donation at the time, but when it comes to saving your mom’s life, you do what you have to do—no questions asked.
Daniella D’Angelo
As a family, we made the decision to move forward with the donation process. I knew very little about living kidney donation at the time, but when it comes to saving your mom’s life, you do what you have to do—no questions asked.
Although my sister and I share the same blood type, neither of us matched our mom’s blood type, so we knew we couldn’t donate directly to her. That’s when I learned about the Voucher Program. Through this program, I was able to donate my kidney on my mom’s behalf, ensuring she would receive priority for a compatible kidney in the future. I named my sister, my dad, and my two children as backup voucher holders, just in case my mom didn’t end up needing to use it.
Thankfully, my surgery went smoothly. I experienced some pain the day after and some discomfort over the following weeks, but it was manageable. My left kidney was removed, and within a month I was back to my normal self. By seven weeks post-surgery, I felt 100% again.
Then came the call we had been hoping for—my mom had been matched with a kidney.
Knowing that my donation helped save not only my mom’s life but also the life of another person is something I can’t fully put into words. It’s an incredible feeling.
For anyone considering living kidney donation, I would absolutely recommend it. Even if your kidney isn’t a direct match for the person you love, you can still donate on their behalf and help someone else along the way. In the end, it feels like you’re saving two lives—and there’s nothing more powerful than that.
About the Author
Daniella D’Angelo, 34, is a dedicated teacher, a proud wife, and a mom to two amazing boys, ages 5 and 3. She lives in Queens, New York, where life is always busy, loud, and full of love.
In her free time, she enjoys reading books and spending quality time with her family—whether that means being outdoors, exploring new places, or simply enjoying a cozy game night at home. Family is at the center of everything she does, and she cherishes the little moments that turn into lifelong memories.
One of the most life-changing experiences in my life has been her living donor journey. Donating a kidney on behalf of her mom taught her the true meaning of selflessness, strength, and gratitude. It showed her how precious health and time with loved ones really are. That journey shaped her into a more compassionate, resilient person and deepened her appreciation for life and family. She strives to bring that same compassion and heart into my roles as a teacher, mother, and person every day.