CHICAGO — At the Healthcare Workers Appreciation event held at Wrigley Field on Wednesday, a healthcare worker chosen to throw the ceremonial first pitch had her own reason for gratitude. She was deeply thankful to the man who had donated a kidney to her.
Bridgett Kolls, surrounded by fellow nurses and supporters, posed for photos on the field before the start of the Cubs game.
Just a few years ago, she was in the same ballpark, hoping for a miracle. Holding up a sign in the stands that read, “This lil cubbie needs a kidney,” Kolls was in desperate need of a donor kidney at the age of 23.
Her heartfelt plea circulated widely on social media, capturing the attention of many.
Among those who noticed was Thomas Alessio, a Joliet resident and White Sox fan. Despite never having met Kolls, Alessio felt compelled to offer his assistance.
“If you have the ability to help someone, I believe you have a duty to do so,” Alessio expressed.
“I’m active healthy I get to move I’m not tired all the time it’s a big difference,” Kolls said.
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Kolls has been living with the new kidney for the last six years. She’s healthy living a full life and working as a nurse at Advocate Good Samaritan Hospital while taking college classes. And she’s grateful.
“It’s crazy,” Kolls said. “I never expected to be here. Such a wonderful moment. Here with my donor. Never thought I’d be throwing out the first pitch. Happy to be alive.”
RELATED: Cross-town rivals forever linked: White Sox fan donates kidney to Cubs fan
Many of Kolls fellow nurses were there to cheer her on and celebrate.
There were about 500 people nominated to throw out the first pitch, but Kolls was the easy choice.
Her pitch makes it to the plate. It may not be a strike. But just be being here Kolls has won the game.
“It’s full circle,” Kolls said. “I was here with the sign, asking for the kidney… and now I’m gonna be on the field today.”
Kolls is a lifelong Cubs fan. She’s never been to a Sox game before but she said that’s her goal for this season.
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