Lisa Waddell Buser

Darika Dennis / Girl Power

In fifth grade, Darika had been throwing up for weeks and finally the tests showed why: one of her kidneys had already stopped; the other was nearly gone. She began dialysis immediately and had a kidney transplant four years ago. Today, Darika prepares for her first year at Christian Brothers University this fall; wanting to be an RN, or maybe a nephrologist, even though she knows another transplant is likely in her future. About a medical career, she says, "I think I could help people understand a little better," given her own history. An active member of her church, Darika says her faith got her through.

"I knew I was going to be OK."