MADISON, Wis. — Kidney donors from Wisconsin are preparing to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro to bring attention to living organ donation.

Taylor Duke said she believes her purpose is to help people lead healthier, happier lives.

“I love the fresh air, I love utilizing my body and challenging myself,” she said on a hike toward Picnic Point.

Duke is a sergeant medic in the Army, and she’s going to school to work in global public health.

When she was working at Meriter Hospital, she talked with a member of the transplant team. That day would change her life forever.

“It really inspired me,” Duke said. “I actually went home that day, and I filled out the interest form, and started the process of becoming a donor.”

When she found out she had been approved, then matched, she was ecstatic — even if her mom was a little nervous.

“I was really worried that there would be a problem and I wouldn’t be able to donate,” Duke said. “When I finally got the call that I was on the list, and they were looking for a match, I was just thrilled.”

At the time, she was donating to a total stranger. There are three transplant centers in the state; her recipient could’ve been at any of them.

Duke didn’t know that her recipient was right across the waiting room from her that morning. But Brittanee, her recipient, knew in her gut that Taylor was her match.

After some time passed, they agreed to meet.

“Hearing how much the transplant has changed her life, it just makes it all worth it,” Duke said.

Now, Duke is planning to summit Mt. Kilimanjaro on March 14 as part of One Kidney Climb with a group of other donors.

“The plan is to summit on National Kidney Day,” she said. “I’ll be with Kidney Donor Athletes, which is a nonprofit organization centered around raising awareness about donation and removing the stigma.”

She said she’s grateful that so many businesses have donated gear or money for her climb. She’s gained support from Clear Water Outdoor, Stolley’s Hogg Alley, Bunzel’s Meat Market, Soul Fire Art Studio, Darn Tough Vermont and Sunski.

Duke said she has gained so much by losing a kidney. Inspired by her daughter, Duke’s mom is now considering donating. 

“It really hasn’t compromised my health or reduced my quality of life in any way,” she said. “It’s actually just enhanced my life.”

Fellow Wisconsin living donors Natasha Irish and Kevin Cox will also be on the climb.

For more information about living organ donation, click here.