Brittany DeSantiago

Help Brittany, a Multi-Organ Transplant Survivor, Receive a Life-Saving Kidney

Brittany Lorraine DeSantiago was born with Gastroschisis, a rare birth defect that led to liver and small intestine failure. At 8, she received a life-saving multi-organ transplant (liver, pancreas, small intestine, and bone marrow). In 2011, she received a kidney transplant, giving her 12 more years of life. Thanks to deceased donors, her multi-organ transplant has remained strong for 26 years with no rejection. Despite lifelong hospital stays and being immunocompromised, Brittany has never let her health define her or hold her back.

Last year, Brittany learned her kidney function had dropped below 15, leading to End-Stage Renal Disease and the loss of her transplanted kidney after 12 years. She’s been on dialysis for six months and now needs a live donor. Since relocating to Miami in August, Help Hope Live has supported her out-of-pocket medical expenses, keeping contributions tax-deductible. Every donation helps as Brittany and her donor prepare for this final transplant at the Miami Transplant Institute.

Brittany shares her deep gratitude for the incredible support from the Miami Transplant Institute and everyone who’s stood by her during this second kidney transplant journey. From family and high school friends to former coworkers, nurses, doctors, and fellow transplant families—each act of kindness reminds her she’s not alone. Thank you for being here and for your continued love and support.

About Brittany:

Brittany, 33, lives with purpose and gratitude, honoring her organ donors while embracing creativity, curiosity, and lifelong learning despite ongoing medical challenges. Born and raised in El Paso, Texas, she is the middle child of four siblings, with an older sister and two younger brothers.

Brittany lives with her partner, but shares a close, loving bond with her family, including her brothers and her sister. Her dedication and empathy shine as she goes above and beyond to support mental health and advocate for individuals with disabilities. She treasures quiet moments, loses herself in music, especially John Mayer, her lifelong “musical marriage” <3

She also has a wonderful group of friends who have supported her every step of this transplant journey, even creating a fundraiser for her sister, Tiffany, who has now come forward as her donor. Her heart and passion touch everyone around her. Brittany finds joy and healing in dancing and singing, loves cooking, thrifting, concerts, and reading about mental health and psychology. A social butterfly with a close circle, she values quality over quantity in friendships and cherishes the little joys in life.

Brittany earned her Bachelor’s in Psychology in 2019 and has spent the past seven years supporting children and individuals with disabilities as a teacher, therapist, and crisis specialist. Now pursuing her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, she hopes to help transplant recipients, donors, and families. While on medical leave, she continues to advocate for mental health, disability awareness, and organ donation, inspiring everyone with her resilience and compassion.

Brittany has taken a medical leave from school and work to focus on her health while awaiting a potential live kidney donor. This time has allowed her to heal and prepare for the journey ahead. She is eager to resume her studies, give back, and cherish time with loved ones. Brittany is our transplant warrior, and with your support, she can continue to pursue her purpose and make a lasting impact.

As Brittany we will need ongoing support for approximately 6 months after transplant along with her donor, we are highly encouraging recurring monthly donations, even small donations help. To make a tax-deductible donation, simply click the “Give” button.

Please help us share this fundraising campaign through social media or with friends and family – every share counts. For more information about Brittany’s campaign or to learn about living donor eligibility, please visit: https://kidneyforbrittany.org/

Facebook/ Instagram: Kidneyforbrittany

For more information on Help Hope Live, 800.642.8399.

Thank you for all your support!