The Brief
- A Cobb County school educator volunteered to donate a kidney to a former student fighting kidney disease.
- Fifth-grade teacher Kristen Thalacker discovered she shared the same O-positive blood type as the youth.
- Although the teacher was not a medical match, a compatible donor was later found for the successful transplant.
COBB COUNTY, Ga. – A Belmont Hills Elementary School teacher volunteered to donate a kidney to a former student battling kidney disease, inspiring hope that ultimately led to a successful transplant.
Cobb Schools community bond
What we know:
Educator Kristen Thalacker learned that a former student, Michael Alexandre, needed a life-saving kidney donor after his disease progressed. The fifth-grade teacher realized she shared an O-positive blood type with the youth and immediately volunteered for donor evaluation.
Medical testing eventually determined Thalacker was not a compatible match for the transplant. However, her profound sacrifice provided critical emotional support to the family before a compatible donor was located through the transplant waiting list. Michael underwent a successful transplant operation and is preparing to return to classes this August healthier and stronger.
Medical details unreleased
What we don’t know:
Officials have not yet confirmed the specific medical facility where the transplant took place. The identity of the compatible donor who matched with the youth remains undisclosed.
Educator explains choice
What they’re saying:…