Giving life: Martin’s Point employee donates kidney.

One kidney, one life saved

Martin’s Point is full of employees who generously donate their time and energy to help others. Megan Marsh went even further—by donating a kidney to a complete stranger.

A lifesaving act

Megan, a supervisor at our contact center, completed the final step of the Living Kidney Donation process at Maine Medical Center. Her kidney was successfully transplanted to a patient in another state—saving a life.

“Each of our living donors has a wonderful story,” said Juan Palma, M.D., Director of Living Donation. “The need is great—85% of patients on the National Transplant List are waiting for a kidney.”

Finding her way

Megan’s journey began after talking with a colleague who had been a surrogate mother.

“It got me thinking—what could I do to make a difference?”

She discovered the Living Kidney Donation program through a Facebook ad and began the rigorous evaluation process. Along the way, she learned a friend of her nephew’s needed a kidney. Though they weren’t a match, Megan joined the National Kidney Registry and helped facilitate a paired donation that benefited both recipients.

Learning and preparing

Donating a kidney is a serious commitment. Megan underwent evaluations with social workers, nutritionists, and reviewed all possible outcomes. The process even included graphic slides and candid conversations about risks.

Luckily, insurance covered the procedure, and she received additional support through Donor Shield.

“The scariest part,” Megan recalls, “was telling my mom.”

She even told her new partner, “If you’re going to be with me, I’m donating a kidney—and I’m not changing my mind.”

No regrets

Megan received overwhelming support from coworkers, HR, and the transplant team. Though her recovery took a little longer, she was never alone.

“I had nothing but incredible support,” she says.

Colleagues helped cover shifts, sent gifts, and cheered her on throughout recovery.

Her donor surgery took place during the pandemic, limiting visitors. Still, she found strength in the experience and her connections—like surgeon Dr. Juan Palma-Vargas personally checking on her post-op.

Sharing her story

Megan continues to share her story in hopes of inspiring others.

“If I could inspire one person to click the link and check it out, that would be awesome.”

“There’s a waitlist—and not everyone makes it to the top in time.”

For Megan, the reward is clear:

“I want people to live long, happy lives,” she says.

Thanks to her, at least one more person can.

To learn more: Visit the Living Kidney Donation Program at Maine Medical Center or the National Kidney Registry.