For most people, friendship is measured in years. For Carver's Director of Elementary School Programs, Tricia Ciccone, friendship is measured in something even more profound—the gift of life itself.
This month, Tricia and her lifelong friend, Emily Horton, celebrated the one-year anniversary of a successful kidney transplant that forever changed both of their lives. As reported by Nancy On Norwalk, the two women, surrounded by approximately 80 family members, friends, and supporters at a gathering in downtown Norwalk, marked a milestone that reflects extraordinary courage, compassion, and friendship.
Their journey began in 2021 when Emily suffered a devastating medical crisis while traveling in Florida. Complications related to Crohn's disease led to multiple emergency surgeries, a lengthy hospitalization, and permanent kidney damage. After returning to Connecticut and spending years undergoing dialysis treatments several times each week, Emily's future depended on finding a suitable kidney donor.
Tricia Ciccone
Family members were tested, but were not compatible matches. Tricia, a close friend of more than three decades, volunteered to be tested and learned that she was a perfect match.
In June 2025, Tricia underwent surgery at Yale New Haven Hospital to donate one of her kidneys to Emily. The transplant was immediately successful.
"The minute the kidney went in her body, she started producing," Tricia recalled.
One year later, both women are healthy and thriving. Their celebration honored not only the successful transplant but also the many family members, friends, medical professionals, and community supporters who stood beside them throughout the journey.
Emily's daughter, Rebecca, reflected on the impact the experience has had on both families, noting that Tricia is no longer simply a family friend but truly family.
Live kidney donation remains relatively rare, yet it offers life-saving hope to thousands of people waiting for transplants. Tricia's selfless act serves as a powerful reminder of the difference one person can make in another's life.
At Carver, we have long known Tricia as a dedicated leader, advocate for children, and champion of educational opportunity. Her decision to become a living donor reflects the same compassion, generosity, and commitment to others that she demonstrates every day in service to Carver students and families.
We are incredibly proud of Tricia and grateful to celebrate this remarkable anniversary with her. Her story is an inspiring testament to friendship, courage, and the extraordinary impact of putting others first.