The journey of an Olympian often involves immense dedication, perseverance, and overcoming significant challenges. For five-time Olympic gold medalist Missy Franklin, the journey has taken on new dimensions as her family faced a critical medical crisis in recent years. Missy’s father, Dick Franklin, underwent a life-saving kidney transplant that not only saved his life but also highlighted the importance of organ donation, the unyielding bond of family, and the strength derived from their deep faith.
The Franklin Family’s Struggle
Missy Franklin, one of the faces of the London Games, inherited much of her athleticism from her father, Dick Franklin, who played professional football in his native Canada. However, Dick faced a daunting health battle in recent years as his kidneys began to fail due to chronic kidney disease.
As his condition worsened, the Franklin family experienced immense stress and fear. The possibility of losing Dick was a heavy burden, especially for Missy, who cherished the bond her father shared with her young daughter, Kate. “Seeing my dad play with Kate is probably one of my favorite things in the world. She loves her Bubba so much,” Missy reflected. The thought of Kate growing up without knowing her grandfather, who was also Missy’s best friend, was heartbreaking.
The Search for a Donor
On January 23rd, 2022, feeling desperate, Missy’s mother, D.A. Franklin, turned to social media for help. She wrote a heartfelt post on Facebook, sharing their urgent need for a kidney donor. “Our family is looking for a Hail Mary and need your help as we are in a race for time,” she wrote, highlighting the dire situation and the statistics—over 100,000 Americans are on a waitlist for a kidney, and 13 die each day waiting.
The post was a plea for help, and the Franklins hoped it would reach someone who could be their miracle. Despite the long wait and mounting anxiety, their faith and the support from their community kept their spirits high.
The Miracle Match
After four agonizing months without a match, the Franklins received a call in May from the hospital. A living donor had been found. The relief and joy were overwhelming as they prepared for the life-saving surgery. However, the biggest surprise came when they learned the identity of the donor—a female Olympic medalist in swimming. “We just looked at each other shocked. Was this really going to happen?” Missy recalled. The donor, Crissy Perham, was a two-time Olympic gold medalist from the 1992 Barcelona Games.
Crissy, a wife and mother of two living in San Antonio, had seen D.A.’s post online and felt compelled to help. Despite not knowing the Franklins personally, she felt a strong connection and believed she could make a difference. “When you read D.A.’s letter, you could feel her desperation,” Crissy said. “I did not put any sort of thought into it other than I wonder if I can help. And if I can help, I should help.”
