NJ Veterinarian Gets Lifesaving Transplant From Fellow Book Club Member

ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — Every year, Faith Krausman and Judy Summers celebrate their “kidney-versary.” It’s an annual rite of friendship between the Essex County residents, who still remember the organ donation that saved one of their lives – and forever changed the life of the other.

In honor of National Kidney Month, the NJ Sharing Network – a federally designated nonprofit that partners with hospitals across the state – shared the story of a heartwarming gesture of kindness that took place in North Jersey.

It all began when Faith Krausman of Montclair learned that she needed a kidney transplant.

In 1990, Krausman – a veterinarian and the owner of North Jersey-based Vet-On-Wheels – was diagnosed with polycystic kidney disease, a genetic condition that gradually led to kidney failure. As her kidney function declined, she became increasingly fatigued but continued working and staying active while preparing for transplant.

Flash forward to 2015 – and a troubling diagnosis.

Facing the reality that she would soon need a kidney, Krausman shared a heartfelt letter titled “I Need a Kidney” with her close friends and book group. Among the book group members was Judy Summers of Short Hills, a devoted math tutor, mother and grandmother known for her generosity in supporting local charitable causes.

Summers quietly sought evaluation for living kidney donation and was soon identified as the transplant match that Krausman needed.

It was overwhelming, she recalled.

The transplant surgery was successful, and her new kidney worked immediately. Within months, Krausman returned to veterinary medicine – and soon afterwards, to running, biking and yoga. The transplant even opened an unexpected new chapter, when the doctor returned to college to pursue a degree in jazz studies and saxophone performance.

Today, in addition to treating animals throughout the region, Krausman maintains an active musical career performing in jazz ensembles.

But she hasn’t forgotten the person who made it all possible.

“I am so grateful it’s beyond words,” Krausman said of Summers’ donation. “Every single day I feel blessed to have this gift of life.”

Krausman and Summers celebrate their “kidney-versary” each July with a special dinner. They also take part in the NJ Sharing Network’s annual 5K Celebration of Life event. Their team’s name, “Keeping the Faith,” reflects both gratitude and hope.

For her part, Summers says that seeing Krausman thrive is reward enough.

“She tells me that giving me her kidney and watching me live my life fully makes her happier than any gift I could ever buy her,” Krausman said.

Krausman encouraged people to register as organ and tissue donors, and to consider making a living donation for someone else in her shoes.

“One person’s decision can change everything,” she urged. “You only need one kidney to live – but you can give someone else an entire future.”

To learn more about organ and tissue donation or to register as a donor, visit www.NJSharingNetwork.org

• See Related: 9-Year-Old Kidney Donor Saved This NJ Teacher’s Life
• See Related: 29 Strangers Donate Kidneys To Each Other In Essex County

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