As an Educational Coordinator at Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center, Daniel Black is used to teaching lessons.
Throughout April during National Donate Life Month, he’s sharing a personal story in hopes of raising awareness on the importance of organ donation.
Daniel is a living donor. Nearly 16 years ago, he donated a kidney to his older brother, Dwight.
“My brother got really sick and was diagnosed with kidney failure. He had been a bricklayer, working with the sand and everything, it got into his lungs and his body, and destroyed the function of the kidneys,” explains Black.
The road to donation wasn’t a smooth one. Daniel and his sister had repeatedly offered to be tested to see if they were a match, but Dwight had resisted the idea of donation, not wanting to inconvenience his siblings.
“He had started dialysis and was doing that for a couple of years,” said Daniel, “Unfortunately, as with dialysis, ports fail and he wasn’t doing well. And, that’s when I knew it had to happen.”
Both Daniel and his sister went through a battery of tests including physicals, psychological testing and blood draw. After nearly six-month of meeting with different doctors, the family got the news.
“I didn’t even think about it. I just went for it,” remembers Daniel. “The results came in, the doctors were shocked at how close a match we were.”
In July 2003, Daniel and Dwight were wheeled into surgery. The change in Dwight was almost immediate.
“My brother was up and running laps around me the next day! But, I surprised, surgery really threw me through a loop. It took me three months to recoup. I just had to take it easy,” he said.
Before Daniel knew it, he was back on his feet and feeling a little better every day. He doesn’t regret his organ donation decision and is thankful he was able to give his brother the gift of life.
“I was happy to help. It gave my brother time. It allowed him to see his grandchildren being born and see them grow, which right there, is everything.”
Even before his own family had a need, Daniel had been an organ donor. It’s because of this experience, Daniel recommends everyone consider becoming an organ donor. To learn more visit donatelife.net.
Recent Stories
Public safety officials recently gathered at Dunkin’ Donuts locations from Stafford County to Manassas to meet with community members in two separate events fostering engagement and conversation.
In Stafford County, Dunkin’ and Baskin-Robbins celebrated the grand reopening of their Next Generation restaurant on Warrenton Road with a unique community event on Saturday, February 8. Customers enjoyed free medium hot or iced coffee while participating in fun activities, including a prize wheel, face painting, and a visit from Dunkin’s mascot, Cuppy. As part of the event, local franchisee Pravina Bhalani hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony and presented a $500 donation to the Stafford County Fire and Rescue Charitable Foundation.
Stafford County Fire and Rescue expressed their appreciation, stating, “Thank you to Dunkin’ (Warrenton Road) for the invite to their reopening and thank you for the generous $500 contribution to the Stafford County Fire and Rescue Charitable Foundation.”
The Dale City Farmers Market is open Sundays year-round, rain or shine! From December to March, shop from 10 AM – 1 PM at 14090 Gemini Way, Dale City.
Discover a variety of local vendors offering fresh produce, baked goods, specialty foods, and more! Whether you’re looking for farm-fresh ingredients, handcrafted treats, or unique artisanal products, the Dale City Farmers Market has something for everyone.
If you’re a Lab lover, Raven is waiting for you! This one-year-old Labrador mix is full of energy and enthusiasm, just as you’d expect from her breed. She has experience living with kids, cats, and dogs, making her a great fit for an active and pet-friendly household.
Raven was returned to the Spotsylvania County Animal Shelter because she does best in a home with a fenced yard. Without one, she has a tendency to wander, so her ideal home includes a secure space or committed leash walks.
Dr. Janet L. S. Brown-Page has been appointed to the Central Rappahannock Regional Library Board of Trustees to represent Stafford County. She replaces Mary Becelia, who was removed in 2024. The Board oversees library policies across Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Stafford, and Westmoreland counties. Brown-Page, a retired federal senior manager and mediation expert, brings extensive experience in human and community relations. Her appointment follows the censure of Stafford Supervisor Monica Gary, accused of political maneuvering in Becelia’s removal.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra,
this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.
