Francia Raisa, the actress who made headlines in 2017 for donating her kidney to long-time friend Selena Gomez, recently opened up about the experience, describing it as "scary as hell" but ultimately worth it. Speaking at the American Heart Association's Go Red for Women event, Raisa reflected on her decision to donate, her journey to becoming an advocate for organ donation, and the evolving dynamics of her friendship with Gomez.
Raisa recounted the moment she decided to donate her kidney to Gomez, who was battling lupus, as a divine sign. Despite the inherent fears of undergoing major surgery, Raisa felt a profound sense of calm on the day of the procedure, driven by a strong conviction to help her friend. "It was this divine sign and feeling I got. It was scary as h---, and it's a mental thing, but I was always confident about it," Raisa shared with OK! Magazine.
In the years following the surgery, Raisa faced challenges, including adjusting to life with one kidney and dealing with the public's misconceptions about her decision. However, she has emerged as a vocal advocate for organ donation, aiming to educate others about the possibility and importance of becoming a living donor. "People also think I got paid for it, so I want to talk about that. It was bothersome, especially something I did it out of the kindness of my heart. I don't regret what I did," Raisa expressed.
Beyond her advocacy for organ donation, Raisa also touched on the significance of women's health, particularly heart health, at the Red Dress Collection Concert event. She emphasized the importance of being health-conscious, especially after donating a major organ, and shared her personal commitment to exercise, healthy eating, and yoga.
Raisa's friendship with Gomez has been a topic of interest, with rumors of a rift circulating after Gomez referred to Taylor Swift as her "only friend in the industry." However, Raisa clarified that their friendship, like any, has had its ups and downs but remains strong. "And one of the best, the best friendships that I know, you go a year without talking, and then when you see each other again, it's like you never went a day without talking. So, that's where it's at," Raisa told E! News.
The actress also highlighted the importance of their friendship evolving over time, leading to a healthier and more genuine connection. "We've never really had beef with each other. Nothing happened, and if you ask either of us, we don't know what happened but we needed that time apart. Then when you come back together, you're better people," Raisa explained, emphasizing the renewed strength of their bond.
Through her experiences with organ donation, advocacy, and navigating the complexities of high-profile friendships, Francia Raisa has emerged as a role model and spokesperson for issues close to her heart. Her journey underscores the power of selfless acts and the enduring nature of true friendship.
