Deana Carter, National Kidney Foundation

Deana Carter, the celebrated singer and songwriter behind creations like “Strawberry Wine” and “Did I Shave My Legs for This,” has now become a vocalist of a different kind, speaking on behalf of the National Kidney Foundation. For her, it’s a cause that hits close to home. In the early nineties her father suffered kidney failure and was placed on a list for organ donation. As his condition deteriorated, his family feared the worst. But in December of 1994, a kidney finally became available and the operation was a success.

Soon after, Carter decided to become an active part in communicating the importance of organ donation. In 1999 she was named an official spokesperson for the voluntary health organization, making public service announcements and starting the “Count Me In” campaign. Although this year’s torch is carried by comedian George Lopez, the recipient of a kidney transplant himself, she continues to be an active part of the group, and was more than happy to talk kidneys with Savvy Miss while getting ready for a sound check.

SM: What led to your participation with the National Kidney Foundation’s work?
Deana Carter: It became dear to me because my father, Fred Carter Jr., had a kidney transplant in 1994. He was 60 at the time and it all happened around Christmas, so it will have been 12 years in December. I’ve seen how much it’s done for him, and over those years I’ve tried to bring about even more organ donation awareness. His life was literally saved by the generosity of someone who gave him a new kidney.

SM: What was it like to wait for an available organ?
Deana Carter: My dad was on the list for almost a year and the wait was hell.