A Whitby kidney donation that began with a wedding-day surprise has led to a successful transplant and a family’s participation in the September 27 Kidney Walk.
Before Shannon Ottonen’s October 2023 wedding, she gave her stepfather, Shawn Richter, paperwork showing that she wanted to be assessed as a kidney donor. Richter, now 60, had about 15 per cent kidney function at the time.
Testing led to a successful May transplant
The process involved about two and a half years of appointments, testing and required procedures. By the time the transplant took place on May 4, 2026, Richter’s kidney function had declined to about six per cent, according to the family’s account reported by DurhamRegion.com.
Ottonen and Richter have both recovered and returned to work. Ottonen said she experienced fatigue after surgery and needed time before lifting again, but now feels healthy. Richter, a master electrician, also returned after his recovery.
Living kidney donors undergo extensive medical assessment before a transplant can proceed. A successful match and surgery can reduce or avoid a recipient’s need for dialysis, but every case is evaluated individually by transplant specialists.
Family to walk at Heydenshore Pavilion
Ottonen, Richter and other relatives and friends plan to take part in the Kidney Foundation of Canada’s Whitby walk at Heydenshore Pavilion on Sunday, September 27. Registration begins at 9 a.m. and the walk starts at 10 a.m.
The event raises awareness and money for kidney research and patient programs. Residents seeking medical information about organ donation should rely on provincial transplant authorities and health-care professionals rather than treating one family’s experience as medical advice.
