Estimated read time: 3-4 minutes
This archived news story is available only for your personal, non-commercial use. Information in the story may be outdated or superseded by additional information. Reading or replaying the story in its archived form does not constitute a republication of the story.
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, Henry 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,” Henry Coulter said. “But I don’t use my medical history as an excuse. You only live one life, so you better make it count.”
A Life Saved — Twice
Henry Coulter’s medical journey began as a baby when he was life-flighted 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 stepped in.
A Stranger’s Gift
Monica 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 him 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, Henry Coulter is training for the World Transplant Games and studying to become an EMT. “In his young life, he’s had some pretty hard obstacles to get over,” said Scott Brady, Henry Coulter’s EMS instructor. “But instead of putting him down, it’s 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.”
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 Coulter by supporting the KSL Give-A-Thon. Tune in to KSL TV on June 4 for a day of inspiring stories and live interviews — including a special appearance by Henry Coulter and his family.
Don’t wait — donate now at KSLKIDS.com
Your generosity helps fund life-saving care, research, and support at Primary Children’s Hospital. Together, we can create more stories of hope, healing, and second chances.
Related stories: New organ-saving technology helps patients on transplant waitlist
