A Veteran’s Journey of Giving Back
Lindsay Gutierrez, a U.S. Air Force veteran, dedicated six years of service to her country before transitioning into civilian life. Her commitment to helping others continued in a remarkable way—she became a double organ donor, saving the lives of two individuals in need. Her story is one of resilience, compassion, and the power of giving.
Gutierrez donated one of her kidneys to a fellow military veteran, offering him a second chance at life. Additionally, she gave 40% of her liver to another person, providing them with the opportunity to recover and thrive. Her selflessness has not only impacted the lives of those she helped but also inspired others through her involvement with the Pin-Ups For Vets calendar, a non-profit organization that supports veterans’ healthcare by raising funds for VA hospitals and medical equipment.
Overcoming Challenges After Service
Gutierrez served in the Air Force until 2016. In 2014, during one of her deployments, she was involved in a vehicle accident that resulted in an undiagnosed traumatic brain injury (TBI). According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, TBI is an injury to the head that affects how the brain functions, ranging from mild to severe. Symptoms can include confusion, headaches, seizures, or even unconsciousness.
For several years, Gutierrez struggled without a proper diagnosis. It wasn’t until she found support at the VA and connected with a neurologist who listened to her concerns that she received the care she needed. This experience allowed her to move forward in her civilian life with greater clarity and purpose.
A Call to Action
In 2021, Gutierrez learned about someone in need of a liver transplant through a friend. As an O-positive blood type, she knew she could donate to anyone. Without hesitation, she offered her help. The experience planted a seed in her mind, leading her to consider how she could make a difference beyond just donating organs.
Later that year, while at work, her supervisor handed her a copy of Military Times magazine. She noticed an ad for Donor Outreach for Veterans (DOVE), a nonprofit connecting veterans and active duty personnel with potential donors. Gutierrez realized this was an opportunity she could embrace.
The Donation Process
Gutierrez described the donation process as challenging, but she emphasized that she would do it again if given the chance. Her kidney donation was to a military veteran named Reggie, who is doing exceptionally well. Interestingly, Reggie’s wife was unable to donate to him but ended up being a match for the man Gutierrez originally connected with.
Two years later, on April 30 of last year, Gutierrez anonymously donated a portion of her liver. Recently, she received a letter from the recipient, expressing gratitude for the life-changing surgery. She hopes to connect with them in the near future and has already written back, looking forward to the possibility of meeting them.
A Message of Hope
Gutierrez shared a powerful message of hope for fellow veterans who may feel uncertain about their future. She encouraged them to give themselves grace and recognize that their path doesn’t have to mirror someone else’s. “Give yourself time and space, and it’s okay to be where you’re at,” she said. “You don’t have to rush anything and just enjoy each day as it comes.”
She reminded veterans that they are not alone and that there are people around them who love and support them. “What God placed on my heart and my life is going to be different for somebody else, but always remember that you have people around you that love and care for you.”
Gutierrez’s journey is a testament to the strength and generosity of those who serve. Her actions continue to inspire and remind us all of the impact we can have when we choose to give.
