She doesn't know their name.
Wouldn't be able to pick them from a crowd.
But because one person chose to sign up to the Australian Organ Donor Register, the Echuca local’s dad received a brand new liver.
And a brand new lease on life.
As part of DonateLife Thank You Day last Sunday, Kimmie is encouraging others to make the same life-changing decision and register.
“I know of eight people who have registered since dad's operation,” she said.
“Those eight people could donate seven organs each, which could save so many lives.
“It literally only takes a minute to register – all you have to do is type in your name, email address, birthdate, postcode and Medicare card details.”
Her dad Peter Lucas was receiving treatment for liver cancer when he was placed on the organ donation list in July this year.
He was moved to the top of the list in October.
Then, on October 25 at 11am – a day seared into Kimmie's memory, still bringing tears to her eyes – he received a call from the Austin Hospital to say a liver was ready.
“It all had to be planned right down to the last minute and everything needed to be spot on,” she said.
“The donor needed to be of a similar weight, age, size and have the same blood type as dad.”
The family hovered anxiously in the hospital waiting room from 6pm as the 12-hour surgery unfolded.
They were given updates along the way and, the next day, heard the news they'd been anxiously waiting for.
The surgery had been a success.
“Six days later he was released from hospital. It was amazing, his body just bounced back,” Kimmie said.
“Doctors are still keeping a close eye on him, as the liver can reject at any time.
“But he's on the road to recovery.”
Kimmie said those nightmare hours made the family realise just how important organ donation is.
“It's one of those things, until you know someone who's going through it, you don't fully understand,” she said.
“He's not just my father, he's a husband, a grandfather, a father-in-law and friend. And he's been saved because of this.
“I want to acknowledge the family of the donor, who tragically lost someone at that time. I will be forever grateful to them.
“And I urge everyone to register. You have no idea, the impact you could have on another family by donating.”
Kimmie thanked the Echuca-Moama community for their support.
To register, visit donatelife.gov.au
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