NSU professors bonded for all times after one donates kidney to a different

By Jason Wilson Last updated Aug 26, 2021

SHREVEPORT, La. (KSLA) – Two years ago, NSU professor Michael Yankowski was told that his kidneys were failing and that he needed a transplant.

“When I somehow realized it was real, I started worrying about what to do,” said Yankowski. “I gave the floor to my family and none of them were viable, so I just sat it down and said, let’s see what God is doing for us.”

He went to his supervisor and friend Matt DeFord and told him the situation. The two have been friends since DeFord joined the NSU faculty in 2005.

“He asked me about my blood type,” said Yankowski. “I told him and I just didn’t think about it anymore. I thought he was going to ask someone in his church, but when he came back the next day and said he would, I was just blown away. “

“I prayed and said, Lord, if you don’t want me to do this, don’t make me a match,” DeFord said. “When I found out I was a match, I thought I was meant to be. There really wasn’t a second thought. I just did it. “

The operations took place on July 16 at the John C. McDonald Transplant Center at Willis Knighton North in Shreveport. On the day of the procedure, Yankowski had 13% kidney function. Now, one month after the successful operation, he is 53% functional.

“He’s my hero,” said Yankowski. “My family loves him. How can I say thank you for my life? You gave me such a gift and I am so grateful. “

“I’m just so grateful for the opportunity to do this, Michael,” said DeFord. “He has a little part of me in him forever.”

With the trial a month behind them, DeFord and Yankowski recovered in different ways at home. DeFord is on sick leave until next Monday. Yankowski will be on medical leave for the entire semester and will check with his doctors twice a week.