Nina Cicmil, a Podgorica resident who four years ago went through a difficult fight for her life due to the need for a kidney and pancreas transplant, is now helping other patients through the non-governmental organization (NGO) "Bravely into a New Life".
Appearing on Boje jutra on Vijesti Television, Nina spoke about her experience, the challenges she went through, and the reasons why she decided to turn her experience into support for others.
Four years ago, Nina needed a kidney and pancreas transplant abroad, and the treatment cost 150.000 euros.
The journey to the finish line was exhausting.
"The journey from illness to recovery is like walking a tightrope between fear and hope. I found courage in myself when no one believed anymore, friends where I didn't have any, and a path I didn't hope for. In the end, everything turned out okay," said Cicmil.
Although she was not a candidate for a pancreas transplant, a kidney transplant returned her to a normal life.
It was the experience she went through that motivated her to help others.
"The experience I went through motivated me to lend a hand of support to those who are embarking on the same path. I want people to get information faster and not be left alone in uncertainty," explains Nina.
The NGO "Bravely into a New Life" helps patients go through all the steps leading up to transplantation more easily: they provide information, logistical assistance, advice on who to contact in institutions, as well as human support.
Nina points out that human support is often key.
"That support is sometimes more important than the therapy itself. When someone says 'you're not alone, it will pass, let's move on', it means a lot to both patients and their families," said Nina.
The organization is particularly proud of the performance "Guardian - Guardian Angel", dedicated to donors and all those who save lives through their silent, heroic act. The wings in the performance symbolize freedom and the presence of the "guardian angel".
"Donors and everyone who helps with a quiet heroic act are among us and save at least one life," says Nina.
Patients can contact the organization via a Viber group, Instagram page, and phone number, which are available 24 hours a day.
Nina says: "Our goal is to provide hope, information and guidance to everyone waiting for a transplant, so that no one is alone in uncertainty."
Nina Cicmil shows that the courage, perseverance, and experience of one person can become a support for other people on their path to life.
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