Barry's Kidney Donor Revealed
Saturday, Feb 21, 2009 | Updated 10:00 PM EDT
Office of Marion Barry
Kim Dickens, a long-time friend of the former Mayor, is the kidney donor.
WASHINGTON (AP) -- A longtime friend has been reveled as the kidney donor for former mayor Marion Barry, said a spokeswoman for the D.C. Council member.
Ward 6 resident Kim Dickens is the donor, according to Barry spokeswoman Natalie Williams.
Dickens offered Barry her kidney after he discussed his health issues with her and other friends during his re-election bid last fall, said Williams.
Dickens and several other willing donors were tested, said Williams. Dickens broke down in tears after learning that she was a match, added Williams.
Barry underwent kidney transplant surgery Friday at Howard University Hospital.
NBC Washington has confirmed that Barry and Dickens are both doing well, according to doctors.
Barry was awake, alert and talking Saturday and should be able to leave the hospital in a week, said Dr. Clive Callender, director of the transplant center at Howard.
Copyright Associated Press / NBC4 Washington
