The power of giving: Amarillo woman recognized for donating kidney to man in need

AMARILLO, TX (KFDA) - A good deed left an Amarillo woman with a special honor courtesy of the Downtown Kiwani’s Club.

It all started when Buster Foster wrote a letter.

He desperately needed a kidney and wrote a post on Facebook asking someone of a certain blood type for help.

Kristie Vaughn caught word of the need and sprang into action.

Both she and her husband Tony went through the testing process.

As it turns out, Kristie was a perfect match.

Buster said Kristie was the blessing he needed all along.

“Like I say, the Lord provided,” he said. “Kristie Vaughn came into my life. She handled this with a grain of salt.”

On Monday, Kristie was honored by the Downtown Kiwani’s Club and Welcome Pardner! with their Random Act of Kindness Award.

Her family was there to surprise her, along with Buster himself.

She said she was blown away by the response and gained some insight into the good things that come with giving.

“It’s been an amazing process,” said Kristie. “I’ve learned a lot. Buster says I’m a blessing, but he really is.”

The transplant took place back and December, and the two are recovering without a hitch.

The two now share a special bond that can’t be taken away.