NC Law Partner Receives Kidney Donation from Firm Associate

A Winston-Salem law firm celebrates a life-changing transplant during National Donate Life Month.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 3:35pm

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A translucent, ghostly X-ray image of a human kidney, its intricate structure revealed in glowing lines against a dark background, symbolizing the life-changing gift of organ donation.A law firm's selfless organ donation highlights the profound impact that registered donors can have on those in need.Winston-Salem Today

Erik Harvey, a partner at Bennett Guthrie law firm in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, received a kidney donation from his colleague and friend, Associate Attorney Elizabeth Lawson, in August 2025. Harvey was diagnosed with stage 5 kidney failure nine years ago and had been undergoing dialysis treatment for eight years prior to the transplant. Lawson, a registered organ donor, offered to donate her kidney to Harvey from the time of his initial diagnosis.

Why it matters

This story highlights the importance of organ donation and the impact it can have on individuals and their communities. It also showcases the power of friendship and the willingness of people to make personal sacrifices to help those in need.

The details

Harvey and Lawson have known each other for 16 years through their work at the law firm and have developed a close friendship. Lawson said she was ready to donate her kidney to Harvey from the time of his initial diagnosis. The successful transplant surgery led Lawson's daughter to name the donated organ 'Mindy'. Lawson encourages others to consider becoming registered organ donors, as they may be a match for someone they know or even someone they don't know.

  • Erik Harvey was diagnosed with stage 5 kidney failure nine years ago.
  • Harvey received dialysis treatment four days a week for eight years after his diagnosis.
  • The kidney transplant surgery took place in August 2025.

The players

Erik Harvey

A partner at the Bennett Guthrie law firm in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, who received a kidney donation from a colleague.

Elizabeth Lawson

An associate attorney at the Bennett Guthrie law firm who donated her kidney to her colleague and friend, Erik Harvey.

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What they’re saying

“Before that, I had travelled a lot. I had done a lot of things, and this was very limiting, so it was just trying to accept a new existence.”

— Erik Harvey, Law Partner

“I was there when he found out about his kidney disease and through the whole process … I told him that whenever it was time for a donor, I would be tested and that I was going to give him a kidney.”

— Elizabeth Lawson, Associate Attorney

“You may be a match for someone that you know. You may be a match for somebody that you don't know … It's a completely personal decision, but if you are not signed up, you will never be able to make that decision.”

— Elizabeth Lawson, Associate Attorney

What’s next

More information is available for interested donors to learn about the organ donation process and how to register.

The takeaway

This story highlights the power of friendship and the profound impact that organ donation can have on individuals and their communities. It serves as an inspiring example of the selflessness and generosity that can exist within close-knit workplaces and the importance of raising awareness about the need for registered organ donors.