In a heartwarming tale of love and sacrifice just in time for Mother’s Day, an Arizona foster mother received a life-saving gift from her adopted son. Ingeborg McIntosh, who has dedicated her life to caring for over 120 foster children, faced a health challenge with poly-cystic kidney disease, and the son she adopted, Jordan, stepped up to be her living donor.
Last summer, Ingeborg recognized the impending need for a kidney transplant. Unprompted, Jordan took it upon himself to get tested to determine if he could be a compatible donor. The incredible news came just in time for Mother’s Day, as Jordan tearfully shared with his mom that he was a perfect match and would be giving her the gift of a new kidney.
Expressing his deep gratitude and love for his mother, Jordan stated, “I feel like this was my calling in life, I guess. Hopefully, I can do more for her as I get older, but for the moment, it’s the least I could do.” Jordan emphasized his desire to give back to his mother, who has selflessly cared for him since childhood.
Ingeborg, a devoted foster parent, recounted the moment when she first held Jordan in her arms, describing it as “love at first sight.” Despite facing challenges, including a preference for Jordan to be placed in an African American or biracial home, Ingeborg embraced him wholeheartedly, and the adoption became official when he was just 4 years old.
The emotional journey of gratitude and love reached its peak as Jordan, now an adult, insisted on being a kidney donor for his mother. Ingeborg, overwhelmed with appreciation, remarked, “I can’t ask for a better son. You took me in, and now I want to do this for you,” echoing the profound bond between them.
The successful surgery took place without any complications last month, bringing hope and inspiration to others facing similar challenges. Jordan, sharing his story, expressed the belief that acts of kindness, whether immediate or years down the line, can make a significant impact.
The McIntosh family has set up the McIntosh Benefit Donation Fund at Wells Fargo to assist with medical bills, showcasing the power of community support and the importance of paying it forward. This uplifting narrative serves as a reminder that love, compassion, and generosity can create miracles, even in the face of health struggles.