NCDOT employee donates kidney, helping two people during National Donate Life Month

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- In honor of National Donate Life Month, a North Carolina Department of Transportation employee is sharing his story to highlight the life changing impact of organ donation.

Chad Ray, an equipment shop employee with NCDOT in New Hanover County, ended up helping two people in need after deciding to donate one of his kidneys.

Ray says he was inspired to act one Sunday morning after hearing a member of his church speak about their need for a kidney transplant.

"Right sitting in the chair, I felt like God was calling me to do it," he said. "I'm looking at my kids, I'm looking at my wife, and if I'm needing a kidney or needing an organ and life is on the line, I would pray that someone would take that step for me and my family."

After extensive testing and bloodwork, Ray learned he was not a perfect match for the church member he hoped to help. However, his decision to donate still made a significant difference.

Doctors say Ray's donation moved his intended recipient to the top of the transplant list, while his kidney was matched with another person in need. Both recipients have since undergone successful transplant procedures.

Ray's story serves as a reminder of how one decision to donate can save lives. Officials encourage people to consider becoming organ donors by signing up when applying for or renewing a driver's license.