Friends and family of a long-time classical pianist and teacher from Chicago’s south side are appealing to the public to consider being a kidney donor for the 88-year-old woman.
“I never thought that I would find myself in this kind of situation but one never knows what life’s going to hand you,” said Yvonne Huntley. “I would like very much to continue to be a part of the musical world in Chicago, I have work to do.”
We met Huntley in the Woodlawn neighborhood.
Sitting behind a keyboard.
She’s been playing since the age of five.
Performing and teaching for more than 70 years.
“I feel that I have more to give and I do enjoy teaching so much,” she said.
She’s not able to teach now because of her health.
Her daughter, Suzanne Williams said she’s a “fantastic, impactful teacher” who has spent her life giving back.
Now, she hopes someone will give to her.
“We don’t have a long time to wait,” she said.
Jack Lynch, an organ donation advocate, formerly with the “Gift of Hope” said Mrs. Huntley is one of five thousand people awaiting donors right now in Illinois.
The wait time is about 7 years.
Anyone interested in finding out if they’re a suitable donor should reach out to the Living Donor Transplant Program at the University of Chicago.
The number is 773-702-0620