Hilary Baude: Kidney Donor & Marathon Runner Inspiring Story

04 May, 2025

Can one truly live a full and vibrant life after donating a kidney? The remarkable journey of Hilary Baude, a kindergarten teacher, mother, and athlete, emphatically answers, "Yes!" Her story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the capacity for extraordinary acts of kindness.

In May 2021, Hilary Baude made the selfless decision to donate a kidney to a stranger, a choice that would not only alter her own life but also inspire countless others. This act of generosity, however, was just the beginning of a remarkable transformation. Following the donation, Baude embarked on a rigorous athletic journey, proving that a single kidney does not diminish one's physical capabilities or zest for life. Her story is not merely about physical feats; it's a narrative of courage, perseverance, and the profound impact one person can have on the world.

Category	Details
Full Name	Hilary Baude
Profession	Kindergarten Teacher
Education	Sacred Heart University Graduate, Doctoral Student (Educational Leadership)
Residence	Waterford, CT
Kidney Donation	May 2021, National Kidney Registry
Athletic Achievements	NCAA Division 1 Swimmer, 23+ Marathons, 3 Ironman Races
Current Affiliations	Active Member, National Kidney Donation Organization
Challenges	Completed the 1k12m (One Kidney, 12 Marathons) Challenge
Upcoming Events	Source to City Race (2025)
Husband	Jim
Family	Two daughters
Inspiration	Family's medical struggles, desire to help others
Philosophy	"When youre going through it, you just do it."
Additional Information	Finished the Ironman World Championship, placing third in age group in her first ironman.

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The path leading to Baude's remarkable achievements was not without its hurdles. Prior to her kidney donation, her husband faced a cancer diagnosis, adding significant emotional and personal challenges to their lives. Amidst these trials, Baude found the strength to not only support her family but also to extend a helping hand to a stranger. The recovery of her husband and the subsequent arrival of their second daughter served as beacons of hope and resilience, further fueling her determination to live life to the fullest.

Driven by a profound sense of empathy and a desire to make a tangible difference, Baude became a living kidney donor. This act of generosity stemmed from a deep well of compassion, and from witnessing others in need. Inspired by the story of a Long Island business executive who desperately needed a kidney transplant, she began researching how to become a living donor, showing the level of her dedication to the cause. Her donation, facilitated through the National Kidney Registry's standard voucher program, was a pivotal moment, igniting a passion for raising awareness about living donation.

Baude's athletic prowess is undeniable. An accomplished NCAA Division 1 swimmer, she transitioned seamlessly into running, conquering 23 marathons and three Ironman races. The "1k12m" (One Kidney, 12 Marathons) challenge, completed alongside fellow kidney donor Matt Cavanaugh, exemplifies her dedication and showcases the capability of living kidney donors. This grueling undertaking saw her complete 10 marathons and two Ironman races in under 10 months, all while raising awareness and funds for the National Kidney Registry. Her final race of the challenge took place at the Philadelphia Marathon on November 19th.

Beyond her athletic feats, Baude's involvement in the National Kidney Donation Organization further underscores her commitment to advocacy. She actively participates in events, spreading awareness and encouraging others to consider the gift of living donation. Her future endeavors, including participation in the "Source to City Race" in 2025 as part of the Renal Warriors team, continue to highlight her dedication. This demanding race, starting at the source of the Hudson River in Lake Placid, NY, and ending in Manhattan, involves 35 miles on foot, 260 miles on bike, and 21 miles via kayak over five days, demonstrating her unyielding spirit.

In 2022, Baude competed in her first Ironman race and finished third in her age group. This achievement further solidifies her status as an athlete and the possibility of life after kidney donation. These accomplishments are not just personal triumphs; they are powerful messages of hope and inspiration for those facing similar health challenges. Her story demonstrates that donating a kidney does not diminish one's physical capabilities; instead, it can become a catalyst for pursuing new goals and embracing life with renewed vigor.

Baude's impact goes beyond athletic achievements. She is a mentor, a beacon of hope, and an advocate for living donation. Her dedication to educating others about kidney health and living donation is immeasurable. Her experiences within her own family, including fertility treatments, multiple miscarriages, and the struggles her husband faced, made her more compassionate. By sharing her experiences, she empowers others to overcome adversity and motivates them to live life to the fullest.

Hilary Baude's journey embodies the essence of courage and resilience. She has demonstrated that even in the face of challenges, the human spirit can thrive. Her achievements serve as a powerful reminder that we all possess the capacity for extraordinary acts of kindness and resilience. Her impact on the world is undeniable, making her a true inspiration to us all.

The New York City Marathon, a celebrated event, was also one of the many races Baude participated in, which further highlighted her commitment to raising awareness and serving as a beacon of hope for many individuals. Her story has become a symbol of triumph over adversity. It reminds us of the power of compassion, determination, and the profound impact one person can have on the world.

Hilary Baude's journey is a testament to the fact that giving can change lives, both the donor's and the recipient's. She illustrates that the human spirit is resilient, capable of achieving amazing things even after facing health challenges. Her life story is a beacon of inspiration to others, showing the world that with courage and compassion, anything is possible.

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NKR Sponsored Kidney Donor Hilary Baude Completes 1K12M Challenge 12

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