Grapevine by Alex Vukoder

A couple of months ago, we shared the story of Cindy Farrell and her remarkable act of double organ donation. She gave a part of her liver to save the life of a small child and then most recently, gave one of her kidneys to help a father of two. Cindy knew neither of them personally before deciding to profoundly impact their lives and the lives of their families.

Cindy Farrell (l), a double organ donor, stands with her daughter
Candice as she showcases the book “Epiphany: Awaken to
Your Truth” in which she wrote one chapter. Photo submitted.

Four weeks after donating her kidney earlier this year, Cindy wrote a chapter about her donation journey for a collaborative book entitled “Epiphany: Awaken to Your Truth.” The book is a collection of nine stories by local authors addressing the moments that changed their lives and, in many cases, other people’s lives as well. The common thread throughout the book is the “epiphany” each writer experiences. Cindy wrote Chapter Two entitled “Gift of Life.”

Cindy celebrated the book release with a book signing hosted by family and friends. The event kicked off with emotional remarks from Cindy’s husband Tim and two of their children – Bridget and Liam. They shared with the guests how proud they were of her and her selflessness. Cindy signed one book with “may you lead always with love,” words by which she truly lives.

Currently in the United States, more than 100,000 people are on the organ donation waitlist. For more information, Cindy recommends as a resource the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS.org). She also suggests joining organ donor Facebook groups to hear the stories of donors and recipients, and of course, talking to your medical professionals. She is also happy to share more of her experience with anyone interested. Contact Cindy at Cydfar17@yahoo.com. “Epiphany: Awaken to Your Truth”can be purchased on Amazon or by emailing Cindy.

Cindy’s husband, Tim Farrell, and their five children, adults Candice, Craig, and Christen, and Revere students Bridget (11th grade) and Liam (8th grade) are very supportive of her willingness to literally give a part of herself to help others. Cindy is also very active in our community. She is the vice president of the Revere Baseball and Softball Association and provides Reiki energy healing sessions to cancer patients and their caregivers at Stewart’s Caring Place.

The Buddy Up Tennis Akron Chapter, started by Bath resident, Judge Jennifer Towell, is accepting volunteer applications for the remaining falls clinics, Nov. 12 and 19 from 1:30-3 p.m., at Springside Racquet and Fitness Club. As part of a national adaptive tennis program for individuals with Down syndrome, Buddy Up Tennis Akron brings together enthusiastic coaches, dedicated volunteers and passionate participants to create a supportive and welcoming environment for all.

The core of the initiative is pairing athletes/students with volunteer “buddies.” These buddies offer encouragement, guidance and friendship to participants, ensuring they can enjoy tennis to the fullest. Participants will learn the basics of the game and refine their skills. All are welcome, regardless of their tennis experience. Students aged 13 and older and adults interested in being a Buddy Up Tennis volunteer can email akrontennis@buforlife.org for details.

Congratulations to Aaron Broholm for being named to the Akron Art Museum board of directors. In this role, he will provide leadership and support to the museum’s mission of enriching lives through modern and contemporary art.

Aaron Broholm. Photo submitted.

Thank you all for sharing and inspiring our readers with your exciting accomplishments and kind commitments to the community and others. I would love to tell more stories and celebrate your good news, so please continue to send them to me at avukoder@gmail.com. ∞