Kidney Donations through Facebook

Social networking sites have proven to be more than just a place for socializing with friends and family, they connect others for positive reasons that would not have met otherwise. Damon Brown, a husband and father of two had just received the saddening news that he needed a kidney transplant when he decided with his wife to create a Facebook account looking for a kidney. Damon created a page on Facebook under the name "Damon Kidney". The page eventually developed over 1,400 friends. Jacqueline Ryell, one of the 1,400, stepped up and volunteered to donate her kidney. Originally, Damon was embarrassed to have asked for help so publicly, "I'm a strong guy, but I would have to say, it's been rough this year" (Brown 1). Although many doubted Ryell's decision to donate her kidney to Brown as they were only acquaintances, she would not back down, "The real reason I'm doing this is he's got kids and he's a good guy, My life is in a good place. I've been given lots and I have a responsibility to give back" (Ryell 1). Originally, Brown was placed on the nation wide kidney waiting list, the wait was three years long. Thanks to the generosity and courage of Ryell, he will receive a kidney much sooner than expected and be able to be with his family.

The author of this article, Elaine Thompson, used mainly pathos to write her article. She mentioned Brown's family, especially his children, many times in an effort to show how important family life is and forever will be to Brown. One emotional quote that very upsetting was, "...he was constantly tired and achy. He couldn't sit on the bed to tell bedtime stories to 5-year-old Julian and 3-year-old Theo because he had to stay close to his dialysis machine" (Thompson 1). However, she also included many positive and uplifting quotes about the situation such as, "A few weeks ago, after the transplant was approved and scheduled, Brown posted the good news to his Facebook friends. More than 300 people responded: "Whoo hoo….what a great Christmas present," wrote Kelly L. Hallissey. "This is awesome!! Praying for you and your family for positive news and a great way to begin 2012!" wrote Brenda Tomtan" (Thompson 1). She used some logos as she mentioned other instances on Facebook and even Craigslist of successful organ transplants. However, she went on a bit of a tangent at the end of the article when she introduced another instance of a kidney transplant through Facebook. Personally, I thought it took away from Damon Brown's story. Hopefully by publishing this article Thompson was able to raise awareness about the extreme need for organ transplants.

For Some in Need, Facebook is Route to New Kidney by Elaine Thompson
http://www.usatoday.com/tech/news/story/2012-01-01/facebook-kidney/52319734/1