Today we’d like to introduce you to Mattie Porter.
Hi Mattie, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My journey as an advocate for organ donation began through my family’s experience with my mom’s kidney disease and transplant journey. My mom was diagnosed with Polycystic Kidney Disease at just 8 years old and has been in renal failure her whole life. Since there is no cure, we always knew a transplant would one day save her life. Watching someone you love face serious health challenges at such a young age completely changes your perspective and taught me the importance of using your voice for causes that truly matter.
That experience inspired me to create my S.E.R.V.E. Initiative, Legacy Lives On, focused on organ donation awareness and wellness education. Today, I’m honored to use my platform as Miss South Carolina Teen Volunteer to encourage donor registration, support families, and make a positive impact through advocacy and service. I am also incredibly thankful for my partnerships with Donate Life South Carolina and We Are Sharing Hope SC, where I’ve had the opportunity to learn more about the selfless work being done for individuals and families in the organ donation community.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely has not always been a smooth road. Watching my mom battle kidney disease and eventually go through the transplant process was emotionally difficult for both me and my family. When her kidney function dropped to 20%, she was officially added to the transplant list, and the waiting process was one of the scariest parts because there was so much uncertainty. Throughout it all, we chose to hold onto hope and trust that the Lord would provide exactly what we needed in His timing.
Advocating for organ donation can also be challenging because it is a topic many people are unfamiliar with or uncomfortable talking about. I’ve had to learn how to step outside of my comfort zone, share personal parts of my story, and have difficult conversations in order to educate others and make an impact.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I currently serve as Miss South Carolina Teen Volunteer, where I use my platform to advocate for causes that are deeply personal to me. Through my S.E.R.V.E. Initiative, Legacy Lives On, I focus on raising awareness about the life-saving impact of organ donation and encouraging others to prioritize their health and wellness through education and service. Through speaking opportunities, volunteer work, and outreach events, I strive to create meaningful conversations and inspire others to make a difference.
I am also a rising sophomore at Clemson University and a proud member of the Tiger Dancers Dance Team. In addition, I am a licensed cosmetologist and work as an assistant at The Brass Bee Salon, where I love helping people feel confident and valued.
What I am most proud of is my ability to combine my passions for service, leadership, and personal connection in everything I do. I believe what sets me apart is my heart for serving others and my commitment to using every opportunity I am given to make a positive impact.
If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?
Growing up, I was always full of energy, personality, and big dreams. I was a competitive dancer for years and loved being on stage and performing. I was also completely pageant obsessed from a young age and loved the opportunity to challenge myself, build confidence, and connect with others.
Personality wise, I was outgoing, confident, and definitely a little sassy, but also very caring. I could make friends with just about anyone and always loved being surrounded by people, whether it was at dance competitions, school events, or spending time with friends and family. Looking back, so many of the things I loved growing up shaped who I am today, someone who is driven, creative, people-oriented, and passionate about making meaningful connections with others.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattieporter06
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/18SsHGTbWL/
Image Credits
Glam Haus Studios
