Ruthie Hoyhtya, a patient access representative at Lakewood’s main campus.
March 21, 2026 — Sometimes, the most life-changing decisions don’t come with a long deliberation.
And for Ruthie Hoyhtya, learning a friend was in kidney failure became that moment — one that led her to step forward and give a life-saving gift.
She didn’t overthink it. She simply asked her friend a question.
“What’s your blood type?”
When she found out they were both type O, Ruthie quietly took the next step — volunteering to be tested.
And just like that, the journey began for Ruthie, who serves as a patient access representative at Lakewood Health System.
A decision that became clear
After undergoing an extensive four-day evaluation at Mayo Clinic in Rochester — 19 appointments in total — Ruthie gained a whole new understanding of what it means to be a living donor.
She met with a multidisciplinary transplant team, learning not only about the physical process, but the profound impact an organ donation can have on another person’s life.
By the end of it, her decision was clear. Even if she hadn’t been a match for her friend, Ruthie was ready to donate to someone else in need.
The thought behind that decision is something those around her see every day at Lakewood.
“To be honest, I wasn’t shocked when she told me,” said Sarah Licari, Patient Access Manager at Lakewood. “If you know Ruthie at all, you know what a big heart she has.”
It’s a sentiment that speaks to more than just this moment, added Licari.
“It wasn’t an easy process to go through to become a donor, but she never once complained. She knew that even if she wasn’t a match for her friend, she would still donate her kidney to someone who could use it. It shows you what an incredible human being she is … her heart knows no limits,” said Licari.
Then came the news: they were a match, and surgery was scheduled in January.
On the day of surgery, Ruthie found comfort in an unexpected connection. Her nurse ended up having ties to the Wadena area and Lakewood.
“He explained everything and really put me at ease,” she said. “He was great!”
With the support of her care team and a sense of peace, Ruthie went into surgery knowing she was making the right decision.
Healing, both physically and mentally
Recovery has been a journey of its own. With six weeks away from work, Ruthie has endured the physical challenges of healing — fatigue, soreness, and adjusting to a new normal.
But alongside the physical recovery has come something more complex: a mix of emotions, everything from happiness to anxiety and even depression.
During that time, Ruthie found comfort not only in her progress, but in the care and kindness of those around her. She is especially grateful to Lakewood team members and friends, Leah Anderson and Matt Tixier, who opened their home to her during recovery and cared for her beloved Boston terrier, Fenway.
“It’s really been a mixed bag of emotions,” she said.
And yet, through it all, one thing remains. Her friend now has a second chance at life.
When asked what this experience has meant to her, Ruthie says thoughtfully:
“I am told over and over that I saved a life. It is surreal.”
Strength from her Lakewood family
Throughout her journey, Ruthie says the support from her Lakewood family has meant everything. From encouraging words during testing to a warm welcome back after recovery, she felt surrounded every step of the way.
“My Lakewood coworkers and managers have been supportive throughout my testing and preliminary appointments. After time away with recovery, it has been so nice to be welcomed back and told I was missed.”
Ruthie said it’s a reflection of something often said at Lakewood, but moments like this truly bring it to life: “Family taking care of family.”
A life-changing gift
For those who may one day find themselves in a similar position, Ruthie offers simple, powerful advice:
“If it is presented to you, get tested and see if you are eligible to donate. I don’t regret my decision at all. I would do it all over again.”
She hopes more people understand that while organ donation is a commitment, the reward is immeasurable.
“To see someone thrive with life afterward — it’s worth it.”
Ruthie didn’t set out to be extraordinary. She simply saw a need and chose to act.
And in doing so, she gave one of the greatest gifts possible.
The gift of life.
🧡💙