Two Women’s Love for the Cubs Leads to Life-Saving Kidney Transplant
A Chance Meeting at Spring Training
Most people think the last place they’d find an organ donor is in the stands at spring training in Arizona, but that’s exactly where Cathy Weadley and Denise Vasquez met before Weadley gave Vasquez a life-saving kidney transplant.
Denise Vasquez, a lifelong Cubs fan, had moved to Arizona for the team’s spring training and had season tickets to watch them play at Sloan Park. Cathy Weadley, on the other hand, had grown up with a passion for the Cubs, stating that she had made up her mind to work at Wrigley Field at the age of 10 and become a PE teacher.
A Rare Disease and a Desperate Need for a Kidney
While serving in the US Navy in 2008, Vasquez was diagnosed with a rare disease that affects the filter in the kidneys. She received treatment for years, but in 2023, doctors told her she needed a kidney transplant.
A Miraculous Reunion
When the two women reunited for spring training in 2023, Weadley found out that Vasquez needed a kidney and was optimistic she would be a donor. “I just happened to ask, ‘What blood type are you?’ Because I know that’s important,” Weadley said. “She goes, ‘O positive!’ I said, ‘So am I!'”
A Life-Changing Decision
Weadley attributes her decision to donate her kidney to a near-death experience she had close to 20 years ago. “I was like, God gave me my life back as I’ve always known it,” Weadley said. “I want to go back to teaching PE—coaching, doing everything I do and I’ll do good the rest of my life and this fit into it.”
The Surgery and Recovery
Weadley applied to donate her kidney in 2024 and was found to be a match in October. Last month, Vasquez received Weadley’s kidney at Dignity Health St. Joseph’s Norton Thoracic Institute in Phoenix. “January 7th, we completed surgery and Denise walked out with a brand new kidney. Well, a 66-year-old kidney … but it works amazing,” Weadley said. “I have affectionately named the kidney the ‘Cubney’.”
A New Lease on Life
One month into her new lease on life, Vasquez said, “I absolutely feel amazing. My blood is being cleaned and the kidney is working great. The labs are great. I’m no longer nauseous and best of all, I am no longer hooked to a dialysis machine.”
Conclusion
The story of Cathy Weadley and Denise Vasquez is a testament to the power of kindness, compassion, and the spirit of the Chicago Cubs. Their friendship is a reminder that even in the most unexpected places, we can find the greatest acts of kindness and generosity.
FAQs
Q: How did Cathy Weadley and Denise Vasquez meet?
A: They met at a Chicago Cubs spring training event in Arizona.
Q: Why did Cathy Weadley decide to donate her kidney?
A: Weadley attributes her decision to a near-death experience she had close to 20 years ago, and her desire to help others.
Q: How is Denise Vasquez doing now?
A: Vasquez is doing well, feeling amazing, and no longer needs dialysis.
