Coach Gets Kidney From One Of His Runners

HOMEWOOD, IL - A running coach from Homewood was gifted a new kidney by one of his runners. Rich Matula was "in dire need" of a kidney transplant due to a disease he's had since birth. ABC-7 Chicago tells the story of how one of his runners was drawn to help the coach who has long inspired him.

"The fact that I could affect Rich's life or anyone's life that wasn't directly related to me felt really good," Michael Blake, who was coached by Matula with the Tinley Track and Trail runners for years, told ABC. "Plus, he was a good friend and to be able to help a good friend out felt really good."

Matula said his kidney function was down to 12 percent, but thanks to the transplant that took place on Jan. 9 he has a new lease on life. He actually considers the date of his transplant to be his second birthday.

"It's almost like a second chance at life," Matula said.

Now Blake and Matula, both avid runners who have won medals in several races, plan to get back out on the course together soon.

More via ABC-7 Chicago

Image via Shutterstock