Rappel for kidney health

Written by | Kelsey Miller | The Daily Times | Delmarva Now

SALISBURY -- Two years ago, Laurie Isner-Miracle found herself taking great leaps of faith in more ways than one.

Isner-Miracle donated her kidney to her husband, Michael, in 2009 and throughout the experience, the family received support from the National Kidney Foundation.

"The people are wonderful," Isner-Miracle said.

The Glen Burnie, Md., resident made it her duty to return the favor.

"Whatever it takes, I will get the word out about organ donation," she said.

Isner-Miracle hopes to raise awareness, even if that means rappelling off the side of a 17-story building.

The National Kidney Foundation of Maryland is hosting its second Rappel For Kidney Health event Saturday, where everyone from donors and recipients to mere adrenaline junkies will rappel from the top of the Canton Crossing Tower in Baltimore.

Those people ready to strap on a harness and take on the challenge are required to raise at least $1,000 for the cause. The participants will be given a fundraising website, a rappelling time slot and some quick instruction. Photos will also be taken of the rappellers as they make their way down the building.

It's a good way to gain support from those who are not interested in attending a gala or walk-a-thon, said Caryn Sagal of the National Kidney Foundation of Maryland.

"It's a different way to raise money," she said.

More than 70 people have signed up to participate thus far, Sagal said. The foundation aims to exceed last year's level, when the event raised $118,000.

Isner-Miracle and her son, Lawrence Webster of Hurlock, were excited to find this unique type of fundraiser. Both rappelled last year and are looking forward to going over the edge again this year.

"I must be nuts," Isner-Miracle said.

Thinking about the task, she knows she will be nervous but felt confident that she will be safe and secure. Still, she is glad her son will be there for support.

"I love the fact that he goes with me," she said.

Webster offered similar support for his family during the transplant, helping them while they were in the hospital. He experienced firsthand the benefits of the foundation.

"The National Kidney Foundation has done a lot for my family," Webster said. "We really want to give back to an organization that has done so much for us."