By Police1 Staff
LOS ANGELES — A Los Angeles County sheriff’s sergeant gave the gift of his kidney this holiday season to his fellow officer and former trainee.
Deputy Kevin Ay and Sergeant Darrin Offringa met while Offringa was training Ay, and the pair became close friends, CBSLA reported.
“I believe God was directing me.” @LASDHQ Sergeant Darrin Offringa donates his kidney to fellow officer, Deputy Kevin Ay pic.twitter.com/07VIsAIsSO
— FOX & friends (@foxandfriends) December 26, 2016
Ay was diagnosed with renal failure in 2013 and was in need of a kidney. Offringa stepped up and donated his, which was implanted on Nov. 29.
“I knew it was the right thing to do,” Offringa said. “I’m just honored and humbled by the experience and to have helped a good friend.”
#LASD Sgt. Offringa explains how his ultimate Holiday gift to Dep. Ay came from his strong faith. “I knew it was the right thing to do”. pic.twitter.com/NHuTE6ueGo
— LA County Sheriff’s (@LASDHQ) December 21, 2016
The two friends were already bonded by the police brotherhood, but now, they’re bonded for life because of Offringa’s gift.
“I always considered Darrin as a mentor; now he’s my brother,” Ay said.
#LASD Dep. Ay describes how receiving kidney transplant from Sgt. Offringa has given him time back with his family. pic.twitter.com/B1x7Fg1mbe
— LA County Sheriff’s (@LASDHQ) December 21, 2016