Brittany McCaffety has always been guided by a deep sense of generosity, a trait passed down from her late grandfather, a former Marine who played a pivotal role in shaping her giving heart. As a young girl, Brittany often accompanied her grandfather to Boy Scout outings and jamborees, where he was a devoted leader. These early experiences nurtured her spirit of service, and despite losing him in elementary school, his influence stayed with her throughout her life.
Years later, Brittany found herself part of a whiskey cigar group that not only gathered for camaraderie but also worked tirelessly to raise funds for local causes. It was here that she first learned of a group member who was in dire need of a kidney.
Years prior, Brittany had registered to be a kidney donor for a friend, but someone else had matched before her. The idea of donating her kidney to save someone’s life never left her, and when she heard that someone was in need again, she immediately went to get tested. Against all odds, she was a match.
After she discovered she was a match, Pat’s identity was revealed. Brittany and Pat were introduced and their connection was instant. He reminded her so much of her grandfather, and their shared experiences of military influence and community involvement created a foundation for a meaningful friendship. Pat, originally from Colorado, had settled in Allen, Texas, while Brittany had grown up in Allen. At the time of their match, she was living in Thornton, Colorado, just north of where Pat had spent much of his life. The similarities between them were striking, and Brittany felt that everything had aligned perfectly for this life-changing decision.
The matching process, however, was not without its complications. After months of tests and hopeful anticipation, Brittany discovered that she was no longer an ideal match for Pat. Yet, instead of walking away, she remained committed to the journey, determined to help him no matter what. Pat had a teenage son who was about to graduate from high school, and Brittany felt compelled to ensure that Pat would live long enough to see that milestone.
Through the donor exchange program, an opportunity arose. Although Brittany’s kidney wasn’t a ideal match for Pat due to the size difference — women process fluids at a much slower rate — there was still a way forward. Both Brittany and Pat entered the donor exchange program, where Brittany would donate her kidney to an unknown recipient, and in return, Pat would receive a kidney from another anonymous donor.
On the day of the operation, Brittany and Pat went into surgery together. Brittany’s kidney went to an unknown recipient, while Pat received a life-saving kidney from a donor he had never met. The experience changed them both forever, connecting them in a way that few can truly understand. What began as a simple act of compassion grew into a lifelong connection, with both Brittany and Pat eternally linked by this shared journey.
Through Brittany’s selflessness, not just one, but two lives were saved. Her story is a testament to the power of generosity and how one person’s willingness to give can ripple through countless lives. What started as a decision inspired by her grandfather’s legacy turned into a remarkable act of kindness that will forever bond her and Pat, as well as the two families who received these life-saving transplants.
You too can be a hero.
Learn how you can become a donor at: donatelifetexas.org
Through Brittany’s selflessness, not just one, but two lives were saved