# @usafencing on YouTube

- **Type:** Video
- **Original URL:** https://youtube.com/watch?v=CuTvhjxRJ54
- **Gondola URL:** https://gondola.cc/posts/36835268-usafencing-youtube
- **Thumbnail:** https://img.gondola.cc/tr:w-,h-,fo-auto/postThumbnails/98f3994ad4.jpg
- **Posted:** 2025-11-10T11:00:33.000+00:00
- **Account Owner:** USA Fencing (@USAFencing) — https://gondola.cc/USAFencing

## Caption

Two DC Fencers Club veterans donated kidneys within three months—one to a brother, one anonymously—and they’re already back on strip. Ken Gauvey and Michael Hughes share why they did it, how recovery really felt, the role of mindfulness and “listening to your body,” and how the Vet community powered their return. We also cover practical first steps if you’re curious about living donation.

Guests
Ken Gauvey — Attorney; Vet epee (DC Fencers Club)
Michael Hughes — Lifelong fencer, teacher & coach; Vet epee (DC Fencers Club)

Chapters
00:00 Two donors, one club; two comebacks
01:09 Ken’s late start → Vet podiums
02:15 Michael’s 50 years in the sport
03:57 Ken’s decision to donate
05:28 Michael’s decision to donate anonymously
08:44 Testing, surgery, recovery — expectation vs. reality
10:43 Returning to fencing: timelines & protection
15:05 First tournament back (Ken) and what it meant
16:35 Mindfulness & practicing the reset
19:18 Visualization in training and at events
20:05 DCFC’s Vet culture & morning sessions
22:58 Cincinnati NAC full-circle moment
24:29 Comeback advice for any life event
27:40 Donation 101: chains, follow-up, where to start

Quotable
“Fencing teaches you how to live a life. Be present in the moment.” — Michael Hughes

About First to 15
Hosted by Bryan Wendell, First to 15 brings you conversations with the athletes, coaches, referees, and leaders shaping fencing today. Listen to the podcast by searching First to 15 USA Fencing on your favorite app.

Hashtags
#Fencing #VeteranFencing #KidneyDonation #LivingDonor #USAFencing #Mindfulness #Comeback

## Stats

- **Views:** 158
- **Likes:** 9
- **Shares:** 0
- **Comments:** 0

## Tags

livingdonor, comeback, usafencing, veteranfencing, mindfulness, kidneydonation, fencing

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