Life has a way of introducing us to individuals who redefine the very essence of strength, love, and resilience. For me, that person was my fiancée, Susan Crismon. A woman of remarkable intellect, boundless compassion, and an unwavering zest for life, Susan was not just my partner; she was my compass, my confidante, and the love of my life. Her battle with liver disease was as harrowing as it was inspiring, and her story deserves to be told—not just to honor her memory but to shed light on the silent battle so many face.

A Life Full of Promise and Passion

Susan was an auditor for NOAA, a role that perfectly encapsulated her meticulous mind and deep sense of responsibility. Her work was not just a job; it was a calling, a testament to her commitment to making a difference. Outside of work, Susan’s passions were just as profound. She loved the outdoors, the arts, and most importantly, people. Her ability to connect with others was magnetic. Whether it was a stranger at the park or a colleague at work, Susan had a way of making everyone feel valued and seen.

In 2011, she brought a little bundle of joy into our lives: Derek, our beloved corgi. Chosen by Susan, Derek quickly became a cornerstone of our family. His playful nature and boundless energy mirrored Susan’s spirit, and together, we formed a bond that would carry us through even the darkest of times.

The Diagnosis That Changed Everything

Our world was upended when Susan was diagnosed with liver disease. At first, the signs were subtle—fatigue, occasional discomfort—but they soon escalated into something far more serious. The diagnosis was devastating, not just because of the physical toll but because it posed a threat to the vibrant life we had built together.

Liver disease is an insidious condition, often progressing silently until it reaches a critical stage. For Susan, this meant a grueling series of hospital visits, countless tests, and an emotional rollercoaster as we navigated the complexities of her condition. Yet, through it all, Susan remained a pillar of strength. Her courage in the face of such adversity was nothing short of heroic. She refused to let her illness define her, even as it began to shape the contours of our daily lives.

A Battle Fought with Grace

One of the most heartbreaking aspects of liver disease is the waiting game. Susan was placed on the transplant list, a beacon of hope in an otherwise grim landscape. But the wait was excruciating. Each day was a test of patience and resilience, a balancing act between hope and the harsh reality of her condition.

Despite her declining health, Susan’s spirit never wavered. She continued to find joy in the small things—playing chuck-it with Derek, watching the sunset, and savoring moments of laughter and connection. She taught me the value of gratitude, even in the face of unimaginable hardship. Her strength became my strength, and together, we faced each challenge as a team.

An Unbearable Loss

In May 2014, Susan’s battle came to an end. She passed away while waiting for a liver transplant, a cruel reminder of the gaps in our healthcare system and the dire need for organ donors. Losing Susan was a heartbreak I could never have prepared for. The world dimmed in her absence, and life without her felt like an insurmountable void.

But even in the depths of my grief, I found solace in the legacy she left behind. Susan’s life was a testament to the power of love, resilience, and the indomitable human spirit. Her story is a reminder of the urgent need to address the organ donor crisis, a cause that I have since dedicated myself to advocating for in her memory.

Honoring Susan’s Legacy While Seeking My Own Miracle

Susan’s journey was one of immense courage and unyielding love. It is a story that deserves to be shared, not just to remember her but to inspire others to act. Organ donation is a simple yet profound way to give the gift of life, and Susan’s story underscores just how critical it is.

Her battle also feels deeply personal in another way. Three years ago, I was diagnosed with Chronic Kidney Disease and began dialysis. Like Susan, I now find myself navigating the uncertainty of waiting for a transplant, living in hope of finding a living kidney donor. The parallels between our experiences are both humbling and haunting. Susan’s strength fuels my own resolve to face each day, no matter how challenging it may be.

To anyone reading this, I urge you to consider becoming an organ donor—whether it is for someone like Susan who tragically ran out of time or for individuals like me who are still waiting for their second chance at life. Your decision could save lives and spare families the heartbreak of losing a loved one.

Carrying Forward Susan’s Spirit

For those who knew Susan, her memory is a source of light. For me, she remains my guiding star, a constant reminder of what it means to live with grace and purpose. As I navigate my own journey to find a kidney donor, I carry her lessons with me, striving to honor her in all that I do.

Susan Crismon was more than a fiancée to me; she was a force of nature, a beacon of hope, and a testament to the strength of the human spirit. Though her life was tragically cut short, her impact will be felt for generations to come. And for that, I am eternally grateful.

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