Belvidere Man Donates Kidney To Friend So ‘He Could See His Son Grow Up’

Next time you get down about this world being full of horrible people that are constantly mean to others, just read this week's Hometown Hero story to regain your faith in humanity.

I understand that last sentence paints our society in a pretty grim light, when in fact there are tons of extraordinary people doing extraordinary things for others every day, but I truly feel the bad stories overshadow so many of the good ones these days. Let's fix that right now.

Meet Andrew Helser, a Belvidere man who recently saved the life of a friend in need by donating one of his kidneys.

I am not ashamed to say that when I read the Hometown Hero nomination letter sent to us by Marcus Wood of Forreston, IL, I got goosebumps. Here is what Marcus told us about Andrew Helser;

Andrew donated one of his Kidneys to save the life of a fellow firefighter so that he could watch his son grow up. There is no greater act of kindness, compassion, sense of Brotherhood than what Andrew has done for Trevor.

Lots of love Brother.

After learning that Andrew Helser is a firefighter, I was no longer surprised by his selfless gift to his 'brother', especially because he did it so his friend's son wouldn't have to grow up without his father. (Dang, that hits me right in the feels every time).

Thank you, Andrew, for showing us all what true friendship is all about. As a small thank you for your sacrifice we would like to give you a $100 Amazon gift card thanks to our friends at Gustafson's Furniture & Mattress, and name you this week's Hometown Hero. Please enjoy it, and keep the good vibes going.

Do you have someone awesome like Andrew Helser in your life? Nominate them for next week's Hometown Hero award, here.