New Hanover County NCDOT employee’s organ donation leads to two transplants

CASTLE HAYNE, NC (WWAY) — An NC Department of Transportation employee is sharing his story this National Donate Life Month after his decision to donate a kidney helped save two lives.

Chad Ray, an equipment shop employee with NCDOT in New Hanover County, said he felt called to act after hearing a member of his church speak about their need for a kidney.

“Right sitting in the chair, I felt like God was calling me to do it,” Ray said. “I’m looking at my kids, I’m looking at my wife and if I’m needing a kidney or needing an organ and life is on the line, I would pray that someone would take that step for me and my family.”

After going through extensive testing, Ray learned he was not a direct match for the person he initially hoped to help. However, his donation still made a major impact.

According to NCDOT, Ray’s willingness to donate moved his intended recipient to the top of the transplant list, while his kidney was matched with another patient in need.

“Two people actually benefitted from one,” Ray said.

Both transplant recipients have since undergone their procedures.

Ray said his work in public service helped shape his decision to step forward.

“Working for the Department of Transportation has been the greatest decision in the world for me. I love working for my state,” he said.

April is recognized as National Donate Life Month, which aims to raise awareness about organ donation and encourage people to register as donors.

In North Carolina, residents can sign up to be organ donors when applying for or renewing a driver license through the NC Division of Motor Vehicles.