Transplant doctor climbs Mount Kilimanjaro to raise awareness of organ donation

SAN ANTONIO – Family, colleagues and well-wishers will gather for a heartwarming send-off and flag-signing event for Dr. Kelly Hitchman on Friday, February 23rd at 4 p.m.

A transplant doctor is embarking on an emotional journey to climb Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania to raise awareness of organ donation. Her incredible dedication to the cause is reflected in the University Health Transplant Institute’s flag, which will accompany her on this difficult expedition.

Dr. Hitchman is the laboratory director at the University Health Transplant Institute and is well-versed in the important role of matching compatible organ donors and recipients. In July 2021, Dr. Hitchman donated one of her healthy kidneys to a stranger, driven by her pure desire to make a difference.

Dr. Hitchman is part of the National Kidney Donor Athletes Team, a group dedicated to increasing organ donation. The team is embarking on a week-long climb to the 20,000-foot peak of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Friday’s flag signing event will be a show of support for Dr. Hitchman, but people of good will can also contribute encouragement to her cause. This flag accompanies Dr. Hitchman on his ascent to the summit.

Everyone is invited to join us for a flag signing and send-off event on February 23, 2024, starting at 4:00 p.m.