One Small Choice Sparks a Life-Changing Journey

Quick Smiles:

• Chance encounter inspires a life-saving kidney donation
• A newfound bond blossoms between donor and recipient
• Nationwide effort helps even more children in need

Sometimes, the smallest choices can change lives in the biggest ways! For Brian Martindale, a simple craving for chewing gum back in 2013 led him on an unexpected path toward a truly heartwarming mission.

On that day, Brian left home to buy gum at his neighborhood shop in Bay City, Michigan. While there, he happened to pick up a newspaper—where he saw the story of 10-year-old Jessica Schwerin, a little girl dressed as a princess and in dire need of a kidney donor. Moved by her mother’s plea, Brian felt a powerful urge to help. Despite being strangers, he soon volunteered and, within months, donated his kidney to Jessica.

The decision formed a deep connection. Over time, Jessica “became like a daughter” to Brian and his wife. Looking back, Brian shared, “If I wouldn’t have had the chewing gum thing, if I wouldn’t have run out of that last stick, I would have just went home that night. I would have never saw the story.”

But Brian’s compassion didn’t stop there. Inspired by his experience—and recognizing how many more children are waiting for kidney transplants—he launched the nonprofit Kidneys for Kids in 2022. Not only that, he kickstarted a cross-country initiative called Driving for Life, aiming to connect children in need with kindhearted donors.

Piloting a donated car, Brian journeyed across America. His dedication meant driving 7,000 miles the first year, then 10,000, and by 2025, exceeding an amazing 25,000 miles. Behind the wheel, his goal is simple yet ambitious: help unite 100 children with 100 generous kidney donors.

“We’ve literally circled the earth to find kidney donors for children over the last four years,” Brian said with pride.

Brian’s story is a shining reminder that even the tiniest everyday choices—like buying gum—can blossom into a nationwide movement of hope and healing. Thanks to his kindness, many families have newfound hope, and smiles are brighter across the country!

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