Since the 1960s, when kidney transplants began, some spouses have been able to give this same gift of life. It was a choice that Linda never imagined making when she first saw Ruben walk into the Garden Theater in the Indiana Harbor section of East Chicago in 1964. The possibilities Get involved With this operation, where it is done is almost as important as who does it. Dozens help make transplants possible. Meet Ruben and Linda's doctors.
Thousands face renal failure each year.
For some a kidney never comes, death does. More than 70,000 people nationwide are waiting for transplants. You can help. See family welcome them home after the week-long ordeal.