Cop Donates Kidney to Woman He Comforted After Son's Death

In a remarkable display of compassion, a former police officer has donated his kidney to a woman he had previously supported after the tragic death of her son. Tim Swinburn, 61, was a family liaison officer in 2004 when he had to inform Clare Brixey, 61, that her 20-year-old son, Ashley Brixey, had died in a car accident.

At the time, Clare was already battling kidney failure and dependent on dialysis. Over the years, the pair stayed in touch as Clare received a kidney donation. However, when Tim learned that Clare's donated kidney was failing, he didn't hesitate to offer one of his own, knowing her chances of securing another were slim.

Clare, who works holistically on horses, has praised Tim's support during the difficult time, saying he "genuinely cares about people and understands the enormity of grief that they suffer." Now, Tim's donation has been described as an "extraordinary act of compassion" that has saved Clare's life.

Tim, who now works at The Salvation Army's Booth House in Swindon, says the desire to help was instinctive when he learned of Clare's critical situation. The successful transplant took four hours, and Tim is still recovering but excited about the future. He hopes to use his experience to raise awareness of organ donation and support The Salvation Army's work.