NEW YORK (WCBS 880) — A kidney donation created a shared connection between an NYPD Detective and a woman from Pennsylvania, who met for the first time Tuesday, months after the lifesaving transplant.
“I’ve been looking forward to this day – finally did it,” a tearful Ruth Tisak told reporters.
For about ten minutes after meeting NYPD Detective Michael Lollo for the first time, Tisak couldn’t stop shaking, according to WCBS 880’s Mike Smeltz.
“I’m too excited to even think about anything, I’m just happen to see Michael,” she said.
Last year, Lollo was motivated to get tested and become a kidney donor after seeing an advertisement in Times Square. He then selflessly donated a kidney to Tisak, a 61-year-old mother from Pittsburgh, whom he never met before.
“It’s just surreal like knowing that an organ of mine is standing right next to me but not in my body,” Lollo said.
Last year - Detective Lollo was motivated to get tested and become a kidney donor - after seeing an organ donation ad in Times Square.
Prior to the lifesaving surgery last year, Tisak only had 10 percent of her kidney functions.
“I got blessed that I got his kidney, that he just did because he’s got a big heart,” Tisak said.
Lollo also says it’s an amazing feeling to finally meet Tisak, and says their bond is just beginning.
“I don’t think this is the end of the story,” he said. “I’m sure we’re going to be connected – which we are connected – you know, forever.”