Updated: Thursday, 21 Mar 2013, 6:09 AM EDT
Published : Wednesday, 20 Mar 2013, 12:19 PM EDT
Pat Hoffmann
FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WANE) – One of Indiana’s most vocal supporters for organ donation is once again locked into a battle for her life, but Leah Smith is used to beating long odds.
The Auburn native received a life-saving heart transplant at Riley Hospital for Children when she was only 11 days old.
At the time of Leah’s operation in 1991, the life expectancy with her donor heart was only about ten years.
Now 21 years old, Leah is again in need of another heart transplant.
She’s been at IU Health Methodist Hospital in Indianapolis since February 27th after suffering her second heart attack in two months.
Since she was old enough to talk, Leah has been a vocal champion for the Indiana Organ Procurement Organization.
She has traveled coast to coast to spread the word about the importance of organ donation.
” I wouldn’t be here at all if my donor’s family hadn’t given me the chance to be,” Leah said. ” So, I just live each day thinking what am I going to do today that’s awesome?”
Be sure to watch the video to see Leah’s incredible story of faith and courage.
A “Team Leah” Facebook page has been set up for friends, family and anyone touched by Leah’s Story to show their support.
via Transplant recipient’s courageous fight.