Brittney Andrews

Heart recipient
Loveland, CO
Age: 13
Occupation: Student
Sponsored by: Donor Alliance

Born with a malformed heart, Brittney was sent home in her mother’s arms with little hope that she would survive. However, at three months of age, Brittney underwent a heart transplant and has lived a normal, healthy life ever since. Now 13 years old, she is active in school activities, playing basketball, volleyball and running track. Brittney competed in the 2000 & 2002 U.S. Transplant Games and 2003 World Transplant Games, with her best friend, fellow float rider Sara Castro of Pico Rivera, Calif.

Brittney's Story

Brittney, who received her heart transplant at 12 weeks of age, began her life as the 86th baby under six months of age to receive a heart transplant. Brittney beat the odds, and after transplantation her life began.

Brittney lives a very normal life, taking only one medication. She is an honor student in middle school and has big plans for her future. She speaks publicly about transplantation and participates in organ donation awareness activities in the community. At the age of 9 she went to Washington, DC to introduce The First Family Pledge, a donor awareness bill. She competed in the 2000 & 2002 U.S. Transplant Games and won a gold medal in the 50-yard dash. Brittney attended the 2003 World Transplant Games in France, winning two gold and two silver medals in track events. In her travels she is accompanied by her mother Michelle.

Brittney and fellow float rider Sara Castro met at Loma Linda University Medical Center in intensive care almost 13 years ago, and share their stories together to promote the bridging of two lives and families.

Brittney and her mother thank her donor and donor family for the heart that has made all of her experiences possible. Says Brittney, “I am glad that I am special, 'cause somehow, some way, if I can share my story it will save other peoples' lives.” She wears a picture of her donor to every event possible to let everyone know how grateful she is that her donor's heart found a home in Brittney!