Going the Distance: Virginia’s Journey to a New Kidney

Virginia Ruffin and her children at the INTEGRIS Health Nazih Zuhdi Transplant Institute at Baptist Medical Center

A Life-Altering Diagnosis

At just 44 years old, Virginia Ruffin received a phone call that would change her life forever. That call marked the beginning of a new chapter—one filled with uncertainty, faith, and ultimately, healing.

Virginia’s health concerns first surfaced during her fourth pregnancy, when doctors discovered one kidney was significantly smaller than the other. At the time, her kidneys were functioning at only 60%.

“It felt like my kidneys just gave up on me,” she shared. Despite medications and extensive testing, her condition only worsened. By the time she turned 41, her kidney function had plummeted to 17%, and she began dialysis treatments—far sooner than she ever expected.

Long-Distance Care and Tough Choices

Living in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma—more than 100 miles from Oklahoma City—Virginia was referred to the renowned INTEGRIS Health Nazih Zuhdi Transplant Institute. She began the arduous routine of traveling back and forth for lab work, check-ups, and evaluations, all while balancing the needs of her four children.

One day, after returning from yet another 200-mile round-trip appointment, Virginia received a call that brought her world to a halt: her kidney function had dropped to 3%. She had to begin dialysis immediately.

Faith and a Second Chance

Throughout her health struggles, Virginia leaned heavily on her faith. “I didn’t want to live on dialysis forever, but I was trusting in God’s plan,” she said.

She had reason for hope—her sister was a match and had planned to donate a kidney in June. But an unexpected phone call late one night in April changed everything. Another kidney had become available. Virginia was the best match and had to be prepped for surgery by dawn.

She raced to INTEGRIS Health Baptist Medical Center in Oklahoma City, arriving just in time to prepare for the life-saving procedure.

Gratitude and Healing

Following the successful transplant, Virginia was overwhelmed with gratitude.

“To the donor’s family—part of your loved one lives on in me, and I am forever grateful.”

To ensure a smooth recovery, Virginia needed to remain near the hospital for two weeks. This added a financial burden to an already difficult time—but thanks to the Samara Family Transplant Patient Assistance Fund, she received the lodging assistance she needed.

Your Support Makes Transplants Possible

Since the Samara Fund’s inception in 2019, $118,272 has supported transplant patients like Virginia with vital resources such as lodging, medications, and transportation.

Because of donors like you, Virginia received not just a new kidney—but a new beginning.

Story by Zoee Zuerker