SM: How has the transplant helped your father's quality of life?
Deana Carter: Well, it definitely was a wonderful Christmas present for the whole family. Dialysis was very confining. The hardest part after the transplant has been regulating the medications, but, except for having to take a lot of those, his quality of life is completely normal.

SM: Can you tell us a little about the “Count Me In” campaign?
Deana Carter: That was so exciting! We were on a major tour, and along with TicketMaster and the music community we helped create awareness by including donor cards in ticket packets. This was before wristbands and twisted ribbons and the other campaigns for cures. I’m very proud of that.

SM: How else do you bring about awareness?
Deana Carter: The kidney foundation here [in Los Angeles] helps me be a part of the education on both a national and local level. As a spokesperson, I’ve spoken at many gatherings about the importance of donation. I believe I must give back by making people aware of the tremendous organ shortage and encouraging them to sign donor cards and discuss this decision with family members.