On the surface, Amy Clipston is a caring wife and mom, caretaker of several adorable cats, as well as a successful author of Amish and YA fiction. But if you read her memoir, The Gift of Love, or listen to what she's passionate about, you will quickly realize that there's a lot more to discover about Amy.
Amy and her husband, Joe, have been in the unique position of being both giver and receiver of a kidney, in a sacrificial process that saved two lives. This has led to the Clipston family's involvement in their local Kidney Walk, sponsored by the National Kidney Foundation. Statistics indicate that 1 in 3 Americans are at risk for developing kidney disease, and it is no respecter of age. Maybe the life of someone you know or love has already been affected.
The Kidney Walk takes place every spring, during a season that, because of Christ's resurrection, reminds us of new life, fresh starts. Great things can be accomplished when many people join together, and it is my hope that Amy's words in this interview will inspire you to help make a difference in someone's life by contributing at least $25 to Team Clipston.
My husband, Joe, has battled kidney disease since he first diagnosed with it in 2000. He first went on dialysis in 2003 and then received a kidney from his brother in 2004. In 2008, he went back dialysis after his brother’s transplanted kidney failed.
For the next 3 years, Joe suffered on dialysis. He was so ill that he could only work part-time. His disease was not only difficult for him; it was also difficult for our sons. I felt as if our world was falling apart, and I was desperate to help him.
In my heart, I believed I was supposed to be a donor, and I was devastated when I found out I wasn’t a viable match for Joe. My hope was restored when I found out about the paired donation program, where I could donate a kidney in exchange for one for Joe. I signed up for the program and then prayed and prayed that we would find Joe a match.
On June 14, 2011, I donated a kidney to a woman, and in exchange, Joe received a kidney from my recipient’s husband. We matched another couple and swapped kidneys with them! Joe and my recipient are doing well, and I’m so thankful that I could help both Joe and my recipient.
I’m an avid supporter of the National Kidney Foundation and the Kidney Walk because of everything we’ve been through with Joe. I’m determined to share our story and help others who are facing kidney disease.
I formed Team Clipston in 2013, and I believed we’ve raised at least $1,000 every year. Joe, our sons, my mother, and I walk every year. It’s a family event for us, and we look forward to not only walking but seeing friends we’ve made through the Kidney Walk.
Q: When giving to a national organization, many people are concerned about their donation actually benefiting those for whom it was intended. How will this money make a difference in people's lives?
The money from the Walk raises awareness and funds lifesaving programs that educate and support patients, their families, and those at risk. It’s important that people are screened for kidney disease so that they can find help if they need it. People may have kidney disease or risk factors and not realize it until they are screened.
The Charlotte Kidney Walk is Saturday, May 9, at the new Knights Stadium in Uptown Charlotte. People of all ages are invited to walk. It’s a fun event, and you can feel the energy and excitement from all of the participants.
Q: In addition to making a donation, what are some other ways in which people can personally help in this cause?
People could help by walking with a team or spreading the word about the event. Also, blood donation is very important. There is always a critical need for blood. In fact, when my husband was on dialysis, he needed 6 units of blood within 6 months. I've been donating blood since I was in high school, and I also run blood drives at my church. If you are healthy enough and are able to donate, please do. Give the gift of life!
I teamed up with Zondervan to help spread the word about the Kidney Walk and also my team. If you donate at least $25 to Team Clipston, I will send you an autographed copy of my memoir, A Gift of Love, which tells our story of how we fought Joe’s kidney disease. Since Zondervan donated the books and I cover the postage, the donation will go directly to the National Kidney Foundation.
I’m hoping to raise $1,500 to help fund kidney awareness programs, and I truly appreciate the generosity of those who donate. As I said above, you donate a minimum of $25, I will send you an autographed copy of my memoir, A Gift of Love, bookmarks, and a National Kidney Foundation bracelet. Donations are due by May 9, which is date for the Charlotte Kidney Walk.
Thank you in advance for your help!
Click here to donate: Kidney Walk / Team Clipston
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Amy, thank you for sharing your heart with us. The love and enthusiasm of your family is inspiring to everyone and it is an honor to help in any way we can.
Readers, you may not be able to take part physically in the Kidney Walk, but you can be a part of Team Clipston by supporting the National Kidney Foundation through a donation, in whatever amount God places on your heart. Visit Kidney Walk / Team Clipston to join in - and please share this with your friends!
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