Spiritual and metaphysical ramifications of organ transplants

[nafai]

This is something that has been on my mind for quite a while; but I really don't know who I could ask that would have more insights into this matter. I know there is a bright and vibrant community here, so I thought to turn here.

Two and a half years ago, I had a kidney transplant. It was a great blessing in my life to be able to continue my life. I have gone through much struggle and turmoil since for many reasons, one of the primary being getting divorced from my wonderful wife.

There's a reason this pertains to this discussion. I was blessed to have someone living, in a great act of love, donate one of their kidneys to me. This was my mother-in-law. I forever carry a part of her in me, and in a sense, makes me feel another tie to my ex-wife as well. (FYI, my donor and I have been able to continue with our close bond that really can't be described adequately).

This all leads to my question. In the past, I have read and heard various ideas regarding the mind or soul and body. That our cells hold our memory and other such things. I haven't had any what I would call metaphysical experiences, but I wonder, now that part of someone else is in me, how does that affect my spirit, my energy? And, interestingly, would the fact my donor is female and I male have any influence there?

I'm curious to others' opinions or if anyone has written anything around this modern miracle.