Making Two Lives Stronger: Brother's Adult Sacrifice Saves Life of Sibling

John Patterson, 18, and his brother Will, 15. 
Photo courtesty of Craig Walker, The Denver Post

Denver Post

Brothers Will and John Patterson have a bond stronger than most brothers do. Eighteen-year-old John donated one of kidneys to 15-year-old Will, who was born with a genetic disorder called cystinosis that often leads to loss of kidney function. Their sister, Elizabeth, is between the brothers in age and also suffers from cystinosis.

The kids' father, John Patterson (Sr.), desperately wanted to donate a kidney to Elizabeth when she went into kidney failure, but he was ruled out as a match. John collapsed and died several years later from a massive heart attack, leaving the oldest son in the family, John, feeling as if he needed to be the man of the house. After watching his brother receive dialysis treatment after dialysis treatment at Children's Hospital Colorado, he decided he would give Will one of his kidneys.

"Once I turned 18, I knew I wanted to be tested to see if I was a match. My mom didn't want me to. I told her it was my decision," said John.

Children's Hospital Colorado described the scenario as "very unusual" -- involving a living donor as young as John. But it was a choice that John was set on, a decision propelled by the tragedy of losing his father and influenced by the love and resilience of his family.

The kidney transplant, performed at Children's Hospital Colorado, was a success. Will's body accepted the donor kidney well. John will be attending Colorado State University in the Fall and Will is enjoying getting back to normal activities, like hanging out with friends and going to the gym.

Read more about this family's touching story of love, selflessness and commitment to each other.

Learn more about kidney care at Children's.