Charlene and Mitch enjoying a moment together.
An Answer to Prayer
Charlene Fero and Mitch Garmer crossed paths in the most unexpected way. After discovering that Charlene was in need of a kidney due to kidney disease, Mitch willingly gave her one of his this past July at Wake Forest Baptist Hospital in Winston-Salem, NC. Only 26 years-old, Mitch didn’t see it as anything extraordinary, he saw it as doing what he could to help. With so many people praying for Charlene, she believes Mitch was the answer to prayers in more ways than one.
Mitch lives near Charlene’s son, Keith Fero, in Lexington, NC. One day while driving by he noticed a sign on the side of Keith’s truck that said Charlene was in need of a kidney. Included in the info was a telephone number and blood type. Writing down the info, Mitch then called Charlene’s husband, Jim, requesting the necessary forms. Being the first to call, it’s amazing Mitch turned out to be a perfect match.
Mitch later remembered a co-worker at Food Lion Grocery Store on Faith Rd. in Salisbury who had the same last name as Charlene. Mitch was surprised to learn Brandon was Charlene’s grandson. One day when Jim and Charlene were out riding around, Jim asked Charlene if she’d like to meet Mitch. She said she would. Stopping by the Food Lion Grocery Store, they discovered Brandon’s car in the parking lot and knew he was working that day. Brandon introduced Mitch to Charlene.
Charlene said, “Immediately I felt a strong bond with Mitch. We talked for a while and then he said not to worry because everything was going to be just fine. This young man was put in my life not just for a kidney, but to fill a void I’ve had for a long time. He’s been a blessing not only to me, but to Jim and Keith as well. Now he’s a big part of our family.”
Surgery was performed at the Baptist Hospital July 21, 2015. “The doctors and nurses were amazed we were already friends,” Charlene said, “because generally the donor and recipient have never met. I’m glad we did because we found strength through each other. It’s usually harder on the donor and that was true this time. Mitch experienced quite a lot of pain, but, he was a trooper. He came to see me after my surgery to make sure I was okay and to tell me he loved me. I don’t think we’ve missed a day speaking since then. It just seems natural. Mitch is a very motivated, strong-will young man. When he puts his mind to do something, he’s going to do it and I’m glad he did.”All of Charlene’s friends and family are glad, too.
Members at Franklin Baptist Church in Salisbury were surprised to see Charlene and Mitch at church only a few weeks after the surgery. When the announcement was made they were in the congregation, everyone stood up and clapped. Humbled by this new-found attention, Mitch said, “Anyone would have done the same thing.” Giving God the glory for all he has done, Charlene and Mitch want to thank everyone for their love, support and prayers. Both Charlene and Mitch are doing great.
Do you know someone who made a sacrifice to help others? Leave a comment, message on Facebook, or email dicysm@yahoo.com
Thanks,
Dicy
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