Estimated read time: 2-3 minutes
- Henry Coulter, 18, survived kidney failure and two transplants.
- His donors include his father and a stranger, both pivotal in his recovery.
- Coulter is now training for the World Transplant Games, inspired by his donors' generosity.
SALT LAKE CITY — In a small town in Central Utah, 18-year-old Henry Coulter is proving that resilience can be stronger than any diagnosis. After surviving kidney failure, sepsis, dialysis, and two kidney transplants, Coulter isn't slowing down — he's just getting started.
"I've never really had a regular time that I remember without taking medications or visiting hospitals," Coulter said. "But I don't use my medical history or any of that as an excuse. ... You only live one life, so you better make it count."
A Life Saved — Twice
His medical journey began as a baby when he was flown to Primary Children's Hospital. His first kidney transplant came after his father, Matt Coulter, turned out to be a match.
"If I wasn't a match, I don't know what I would have done," Matt Coulter said. "I felt like I needed to give my kidney to him as much as he needed it."
"That transplant was like death the day before and life the next day," Henry Coulter's mom, Alisa Coulter, added.
But in 2024, Henry Coulter's health took another hit. After a bout with the flu and a GI virus, his kidney function collapsed again. He was back on dialysis — and back on the transplant list.
That's when Monica Leger stepped in.
A Stranger's Gift
Leger, a stranger, became Henry Coulter's second donor. Her kidney had been through boot camp, police academy, marathons and world travel — and now, it was giving Henry Coulter a second chance at life.
"We instantly fell in love with her," Matt Coulter said. "When we asked why she donated, she simply said, 'Because I can.'"
"I met her and thought, 'Oh my gosh, I have to live up to this,'" Henry Coulter said. "I wouldn't want her kidney to be in some lazy person. She inspires me to go and do all this."
Looking ahead
Now a high school senior, he is training for the World Transplant Games and studying to become an emergency medical technician.
"In his young life, he's had some pretty hard obstacles to get over," said Scott Brady, Henry's EMS instructor. "But instead of putting him down, it actually greatly motivated him."
Henry Coulter's best friend, Carson Blackburn, agrees.
"When he puts his mind to something, he really wants to get it done," Blackburn said.
Help kids like Henry: Join the KSL Give-A-Thon
Henry Coulter's story is a powerful reminder of what's possible when compassion meets action. You can help more kids like Henry by supporting the KSL Give-A-Thon.
Tune in to KSL-TV on Wednesday, June 4 for a day of inspiring stories and live interviews — including a special appearance by Henry and his family.
The KSL Give-A-Thon is Wednesday at 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.; 4:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. You can donate now at KSLKIDS.com.
Every dollar helps fund life-saving treatments, research, and support services for children and families across our community.
