At LaForce, we believe that our greatest strength lies in our people. Our team members are the heart and soul of our organization, and their dedication, compassion, and unity create a truly special culture. Today, we want to share an inspiring story that exemplifies the remarkable spirit of our LaForce family.
Lee Vanpay was born with polycystic kidney disease, a condition that gradually reduced his kidney function. As his health declined, he needed to find a kidney donor. LaForce featured Lee’s story in the company Ledger, prompting several to come forward as potential donors. Despite their willingness, none were a match.
Elizabeth Mullaney joined LaForce in January 2023, working in the Accounting department alongside Amber Curran. The two became very close in a short amount of time, emphasizing the phrase “work besties.” Amber shared Lee’s story with Elizabeth, igniting a spark of determination in her. Elizabeth requested the Ledger article, feeling an uncanny calling to help.
In late July 2023, after discussing the possibility with her husband, Elizabeth reached out to the Madison hospital for initial interviews and a comprehensive workup. By February 2024, she received the news that she was approved to donate a kidney. Elizabeth’s donation in March 2024 was not directly to Lee but through the Kidney Exchange Program, which significantly advanced Lee’s position on the transplant list by five years!
A sense of duty and empathy drove Elizabeth’s decision to donate. She felt compelled to help, knowing she would want someone to do the same for her if the roles were reversed. Her selflessness was a testament to her character. She was not seeking recognition but driven by genuine kindness.
Lee expressed profound gratitude for her sacrifice. He described it as an act of kindness and selflessness that significantly improved his quality of life. He humorously sports a shirt that reads, “Kidney recipient, I run on spare parts,” symbolizing his journey and humor throughout. Elizabeth’s act of kindness not only saved a life but also brought joy and hope to Lee’s life.
Elizabeth is fully healed, with minimal scarring. She emphasizes the ease and safety of becoming a living donor, highlighting the immense positive impact it can have. Her husband, initially hesitant, fully supported her decision after understanding the process.
Both Elizabeth and Lee advocate for organ donation. Lee encourages others to consider becoming donors on their driver’s licenses, while Elizabeth highlights that living donors can lead whole, healthy lives. The story of Elizabeth Mullaney and Lee Vanpay is a powerful reminder of the life-saving potential of organ donation and the strength of community support.
Elizabeth’s and Lee’s story is not just an isolated act of kindness but a representation of the values that LaForce embodies every day. It is a testament to how a supportive and compassionate workplace can inspire extraordinary acts of generosity and bring people together for a common cause. This culture of care and solidarity is what makes LaForce more than just a workplace – it makes it a family.
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