Little Things Matter

When I needed a kidney transplant, I was frightened.

When I needed a kidney transplant, I was frightened. I was extremely worried about not being around for my family. After doing my own research, I chose Cleveland Clinic Weston Hospital for my care.

My nephew Evan, bless his heart, was my kidney donor. He was like, “I’m ready — let’s go!” He immediately stepped up for me.

I had a great family support system. My husband was such a great advocate for me, shouting from the rooftops to get help for me. My mom went with me to all my appointments. And my siblings rallied around me to take care of me through this journey.

Everyone at Cleveland Clinic Weston Hospital was excellent, too. They helped me through the toughest time of my life.

I’m so grateful. When you go through something like this, the little things matter. You really focus on some of the things in life that we sometimes take for granted, like watching a movie and laughing with your family or playing a board game or even walking the dog. You know who you want to be around, and there’s no room for drama. I thank God every day for getting me through this.

Rachel Villamonte and her husband, Pablo, met on a blind date for Valentine’s Day in 1987 and got married five years later. They have two sons, David and Justin, and a goldendoodle dog named Winslow.