Selfless is one word used to describe Rebecca Niederfringer, a paraprofessional at Crabapple Lane Elementary, after she graciously donated her kidney to save the life of Crabapple Lane’s assistant principal, Erin Yocom.

Years ago, Yocom was diagnosed with a rare kidney disease and has been able to maintain a healthy lifestyle up until a few months ago when her kidneys began to fail rapidly. With limited options, she was in need of a new kidney and placed on an organ transplant list.

Patients can be on this list for years and donors can come from all around the world, but who would have thought that Yocom’s donor would come in a few short months and from her own school.

With a heart full of gratitude, Niederfringer offered to donate her kidney to Yocom. When Yocom found out that Niederfringer was so willing to do this selfless act, she was beyond grateful.

“It’s the most selfless gift anybody can give. She is truly changing my life,” Yocom says.

What started as one person’s act of kindness quickly spread to the entire Crabapple Lane school community as students, parents, faculty, and staff hosted a parade; they filled the halls of Crabapple Lane chanting “Kidney Strong” to show their support for Yocom and Niederfringer who were both overwhelmed at the amount of love and support given by their school community.

But they couldn’t stop there, Crabapple Lane’s students, faculty, and staff are also raising money to support the medical costs for both Yocom, Niederfringer, and their families.

Monetary donations can be dropped off at the front office of Crabapple Lane Elementary at 450 Crabapple Lane, Peachtree City, GA 30269.