Goldsboro NC — In a world that sometimes feels short on good news, one story shines a light on the incredible power of resilience, generosity, and the human spirit — all sparked by a simple social media post.

Albert Jeffries, (AlJ,) has never had it easy. Born with a serious heart condition called dilated cardiomyopathy, his childhood was filled with hospital visits and uncertain tomorrows. At just 13 years old, he received a life-saving heart transplant — a gift that allowed him to keep dreaming, growing, and fighting. “I have been on this hardship journey since I was four months old up until 22 years old today,” AlJ said.

But life had another challenge waiting. At age 22, AlJ found himself in need of a kidney. That’s when something extraordinary happened.

Mandy Harris, a 48-year-old woman from Pikeville, NC. She had been following AlJ’s journey on a Facebook page called “Teamalj’s Journey with a New Heart.” for a while. Deeply moved by his story and determined to help, Mandy went through the process to see if she could be his kidney donor. Fortunately, she was a match.  “I was sitting there and just had the nudge from God saying to go for it,” Mandy said.

On February 4th, in a powerful act of kindness and love for someone she had never met in person, Mandy donated one of her kidneys to AlJ. Her selflessness gave him not just renewed health, but a fresh start.

AlJ’s kidney transplant was conducted through UNC Hospitals in Chapel Hill where both AlJ and Mandy had successful six week recoveries. Now, just a few months later, AlJ is beginning a new chapter many take for granted: he’s strong enough to work — and he’s landed his very first job.

Mand and AlJ still communicate with each other today. “Me and Mandy talk all the time,” AlJ said. “We’re practically family now.” 

These two heroes recently completed an organ donation marathon that consisted of a mile run or a three mile run. To show their support and appreciation for their journeys, Mandy and AlJ participated. “I jogged half of the mile run,”AlJ said. “My mom and Mandy were walking.”  AlJ was approached by an organization named Transplant Sports that includes over 20 competitions for recipients and living donors along with 60+ special events throughout the week that provide opportunities to celebrate donors, attend lectures and workshops, and interact with friends and associates. 

Albert Jeffries story is just one of many, in honor of  National Donate Life Month — a reminder of how organ donations can truly transform lives.