True loyalty and dedication.
During Christmas break, Deron Hunter donated his kidney to his coach at Muskegon Crossfit, Codiee Lofquist. Speaking to media outlet about the decision, Daron said that when he realized the two had the same blood type:
“It was immediate. As soon as I heard he needed a donor, and I was his blood type, I called the hospital the next day to get the ball rolling.”
Hunter added that if anyone deserved the kidney it was Codiee, his service to the country and personal selflessness made the decision easier.
“Not only is he a friend and somebody I respect, he’s also a Marine; he’s already put it on the line for all of us. He’s selfless in other ways as well. Quick story: My truck broke down about 4 hours away (Gary, Indiana, of all places), at 11:00 on a Sunday night. As I’m trying to figure out what to do – Codiee texts me, and offers to come down and either help me fix it, or come pick me up.”
Deron also stated that the two grew extremely close during the growth of their crossfit gym.
“We were pretty close. Our box started out pretty small, and the OG group really became some of our closest friends – going out on the weekends, hanging out at the lake on holidays, etc. Inside of that group, I think Codiee and I were pretty close as well.”
Although he said he was nervous, Devon seemed lighthearted about the operation.
“Nervous? Sure. I’m a Christian man, so I’m not afraid of dying – that said, I’m in no rush. They say the odds are about 1 in 1,000 that a donor would die on the table – those are pretty good odds, but that’s always in the back of your mind none-the-less.”
CrossFit aims to create a stong sense of community with it’s members, and many others have criticized this as a cult mentality. However, another coach from the gym remarked that that sense of community can foster incredible acts. He believes this was a great example.
“Whether it is a tough WOD or a tough patch in life I always see our athletes supporting each other in one way or another.”
When Deron was asked if the surgery changed his relationship with Codiee he replied:
“You know, I don’t really think it has changed much. I mean, obviously Codiee is grateful, and we text each other quite often to see how recovery is going – but that’s about it.”
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
