Everett German, Charleston’s beloved College of Charleston basketball play-by-play announcer for 20 years, survived kidney failure thanks to his sister Charlene’s 2011 living donation, now advocating with We Are Sharing Hope SC to tackle organ donation disparities in SC’s Black communities.
Health Crisis to Lifesaver
At 31, high blood pressure (220/160) caused sudden blurry vision and 12% kidney function—down to 5% after five years on meds/dialysis. Blasted family for donor matches; sister tested and donated June 8, 2011, giving him a “second shot at life” as a 51-year-old husband/father.
Racial Disparities
SC’s waitlist: 1,900+ people, 56% African-American, due to education gaps and trust issues (e.g., myths like hospitals skipping care for donors). One donor saves 8 lives, tissue donation up to 75. We Are Sharing Hope SC fights myths; German shares his story at events.
Inspiring Lowcountry tale—family bonds and awareness closing gaps. Proud SC moment!
