Retired Teacher Needed a Kidney, and a Former Student Answered the Call

Jackie Bennett is a former teacher and coach who taught at Page High School in Franklin, Tennessee. The beloved educator was also diagnosed with kidney failure and needed a kidney transplant. And then, one of his students from thirty years before stepped up and answered the call, saving his life.

Kelly Wilkerson, a former student of Jackie’s, stepped up to help her former teacher when he needed her the most. “I was getting to where I couldn’t do anything. I lost about 20-25 pounds,” Jackie shares about his condition.

His Former Student Donates Her Kidney, Saving His Life

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His daughter posted about his need for a kidney on social media. Many former students underwent testing to determine if they were a match. And Kelly was.

“God bless Kelly for doing this,” Jackie says. “She was a real smart girl and pretty as she could be and a manager with the basketball team.”

What a fantastic gift Kelly gave to someone who meant so much to her. The surgery went well, and both are now home from the hospital.

It Was Quite the Blessing

“It’s just a blessing. I feel great. Just glad to get a kidney,” the thankful former teacher says. Now that he has received his new kidney, he wants to share his story and raise awareness about the importance of organ donation.

Kelly shares that the pain of recovery from surgery is a small price to pay for saving a life. And when asked why she did it, she simply says, “Why wouldn’t I?”

It is truly a blessing from God that Kelly was able to give Jackie her kidney. It is a loving and selfless act, and we know the world needs more of those these days. Prayers to Kelly and Jackie as they continue to recover and share good things with the world.

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“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” - Galatians 6:2

A retired teacher and coach from Page High School in Franklin was given the gift of life from a former students 32 years later.

Jackie Bennett suffered from kidney failure and student was match. https://t.co/quCimXUNl2

— NewsChannel 5 (@NC5) October 28, 2025

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Julie Provost is a GodUpdates staff writer and editor. She lives in Tennessee with her husband, three boys, and little dog Max. She loves to read, go to the movies, and enjoy time with family and friends.