Meet Nicole Brook Stoe
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Age: 31 |
Originally published in Transplant Experience News Vol. 2, 2006
On December 3, 1990, Nicole Brook Stoe thought she was a healthy, happy 16-year-old with just a case of the flu. Then, her skin turned gold. Her parents drove her to a hospital in Cumberland, Maryland, where the doctors first thought she might have hepatitis. The next day, Nicole was transferred to Pittsburgh, where it was believed that she was suffering from Wilson’s disease, a rare disorder where the body becomes poisoned by copper.
By December 5th, Nicole had gone into a coma, was moved to the ICU, and was given less than 24 hours to live if she didn’t have a liver transplant.
After 21 hours had passed, her family’s prayers were answered. A donor had been found, and she was prepared for surgery. Afterward, the diagnosis of Wilson’s disease was confirmed—and Nicole started the recovery process.
“I am forever in debt to a young man from West Virginia, his gracious family, and the transplant team at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh. I thank God every day for the second chance at life. Without it, I would never have graduated from high school and college, gotten married, or known the joy of giving birth to and raising a son.”
Since her transplant, Nicole finds herself giving more of herself to others. She also volunteers as a counselor for a pediatric transplant camp. She took part in a documentary that is given to patients when they are discharged from the hospital to explain how to take care of themselves after transplantation.
Additionally, she talks to other patients who have questions about having children after transplantation.
“Because of my personal experience, my family and I have all signed organ donation cards. I talk with my friends and new acquaintances about the importance of organ donation. I hope that by talking to whomever I can, I might help another person like me.”
Nicole Brook Stoe has become a strong advocate for the organ donation program that saved her life. She is just one example of how transplant recipients can return stronger than ever, contributing to their community and others in need.
