Having covered the Columbus Blue Jackets since the team’s inaugural season in 2000, Aaron Portzline has built plenty of connections within the franchise throughout its first 24 years of existence.
One would imagine that few, however, are now as strong as the bond that he’s built with communications specialist Lindy Noel.
Last October, Portzline revealed that he’s suffering from stage 5 kidney failure. The Athletic staff writer has been receiving frequent dialysis treatments to help combat his health issues, which stem from a genetic condition known as polycystic kidney disease.
Some personal news I've been encouraged to share: pic.twitter.com/6i93MvCKnB
— Aaron Portzline (@Aportzline) October 2, 2023
Portzline’s condition ultimately left him in need of a new kidney. On Friday, he is scheduled to receive just that thanks to a donation from Noel, who first learned of his health issues via his social media post.
“It inspired me. It made me want to help,” Noel told WOSU Public Media on Thursday. “And I went through the testing process, and here we are.”
“I’m nervous in the sense that, like, I’ve never had major surgery before, but I’m not nervous and anxious or freaking out or anything like that,” she later added. “I feel very confident in the decision that I’ve made to donate.”
Considering the difficulties that many in need of a kidney donation go through in securing a match, the longtime sportswriter knows how fortunate he is to have found one. While Portzline and Noel’s respective job duties don’t have much overlap beyond both involving the Blue Jackets, the two have known each other for the past three seasons.
“Our jobs interface, but don’t on a daily basis interact necessarily, but certainly we were familiar with each other,” Portzline said. “And we’ve always gotten along obviously.”
Now they’ll forever be linked thanks to what Portzline calls “an incredible, charitable act.” Here’s to hoping for a speedy recovery for both Portzline and Noel following Friday’s procedure.
About Ben Axelrod
Ben Axelrod is a veteran of the sports media landscape, having most recently worked for NBC's Cleveland affiliate, WKYC. Prior to his time in Cleveland, he covered Ohio State football and the Big Ten for outlets including Cox Media Group, Bleacher Report, Scout and Rivals.