Kessel Is Hero of 2026 Bell Value Award Story

Bell Bank proudly honors Jess Kessel, mortgage loan officer at our Creve Coeur location in Missouri, as our 2026 Bell Value Award winner in the category of Paying It Forward!

Jess Kessel volunteered to become a living kidney donor after learning that her cousin needed a transplant. She entered an evaluation process to determine whether donation would be possible and her kidney would be compatible. Testing confirmed that Jess was a match, and she chose to move forward with the surgery. 

The decision required Jess to weigh the risks, recovery and time away from responsibilities while considering her husband and six children. She continued through every stage, giving her cousin a needed organ and renewed hope. Both Jess and her cousin are doing great after the transplant. Her role was essential because the procedure depended on both medical compatibility and her voluntary decision to donate. “Jess is a living hero,” Pat Flynn said. “She has truly gone above and beyond for her cousin.” Jess accepted a sacrifice so someone she loved could have treatment options and a future. Her family supported the demands that came with testing, surgery and recovery. That selfless choice changed her cousin’s life and showed the difference one person’s generosity can make. 

Congratulations, Jess. You’re our hero!