At a routine doctor’s appointment in 2013, I was told my kidney function was declining. After numerous doctors’ appointments with specialists, I was diagnosed with Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS). FSGS is a rare kidney disease that causes scarring in the kidney’s filtering units and caused my kidney failure.

To learn more about living kidney donation or start the testing process on Lee’s behalf, please contact:

Jackie D Haney  BSN, RN

Donor Transplant Coordinator at The Christ Hospital

jacqueline.hanley@thechristhospital.com

513-585-1440

Follow Lee's journey here: Life for Lee - FB Group 

 Hello everyone, my name is Stacey Brown, and I’m reaching out to share my personal journey as I face a challenging time in my life. Over a year ago, I was diagnosed with Membranous Nephropathy, a rare autoimmune disease that impacts the filters of my kidneys. This has led to complications such as protein in my urine, reduced kidney function, and swelling.

After more than a year of being on dialysis, my doctors have recommended a kidney transplant as the best path forward for my health. I find myself in a position where I must seek a living donor. This option not only has the potential to expedite my transplant process but also increases the likelihood of a successful outcome.

At 51, I hold dear my roles as a loving husband and devoted father to my three daughters, aged 25, 19, and a spirited 5-year-old, along with my 22-year-old son. I also take immense joy in being a grandfather to my delightful 3-year-old grandson. These family connections are what drive me to seek out a donor, as I long to continue making memories with them.

If you know anyone who might be willing to undergo a kidney donation evaluation, I would be incredibly grateful if you could reach out to OmniLife Health at UC Health https://omnilife.health/uc-living-donor/.... Even if you are not a match, your willingness to share my story within your own network can help raise awareness about living donation and the urgent need for organ donors. Thank you for taking the time to read this and for your support during this difficult journey. It means the world to me. #beadonor

Let's Find Stacey a Kidney 

I (Kathy Buckley) am resilient, strong, and hopeful. I’ve endured hardships but persevered. Now I need YOUR help. I’ve been diagnosed with end stage kidney failure and need a living kidney donor to save my life.

In 2024, I couldn’t walk more than a few feet without experiencing shortness of breath. I was bloated and felt miserable. After consulting with my doctors, I came to accept that my current state of health was my new normal. Just a few months later, I suddenly lost consciousness and was rushed to the hospital. The emergency room doctors told my family I was dying and that there was nothing else they could do for me. Through their tears, my family said goodbye. Miraculously I woke up six days later in the ICU and it was then that doctors diagnosed me with kidney failure.

There are only two treatments for people living with kidney failure: dialysis or transplant. While I wait for a transplant, I must do dialysis treatments to stay alive. Each week, I spend 12 hours hooked up to a machine (3 days a week, 4 hours at a time) to filter the toxins out of my blood. Dialysis is hard and limits my quality of life. I experience fatigue, low blood pressure, nauseousness, and lightheadedness. While I’m doing my treatments at the dialysis center, I’m seated next to people who are extremely ill. I’ve had to watch people be taken away in an ambulance and arrived at the clinic to find the chair next to me empty because someone passed away from kidney failure. It’s difficult both mentally and emotionally to be in a dialysis clinic and like many on dialysis, I suffer from depression. Dialysis isn’t living, it’s existing.

I might not look sick, but I am and living with kidney failure is difficult. My days are filled with numerous doctor’s appointments and monthly blood tests. I lack the stamina to do simple household chores like cleaning without having to take a break. I’ve had to alter my diet and follow a low sodium (salt), low protein, and low phosphorous diet to prevent further damage to my kidneys. Sadly, it’s difficult to go out to restaurants with friends and I can’t have many of my favorite foods like spinach salad, bananas, or potatoes. Because of my kidney failure and dialysis treatments, I’m unable to travel and explore new places. Despite all these challenges, I’m a fighter and not giving up!

I had a near death experience and saw the beckoning light to heaven. I believe God still has work for me to do on this earth. A new kidney will allow me to spend more time with family and friends making new memories. I’ll be able to travel and visit my sister and nephews who live out of state. I’d love to freely travel and go on a cruise. For 14 years, I was a corporate engagement director, and my job was to build and execute programs to give back to the community. A new kidney will give me renewed energy and health so I can volunteer in my community. With a new kidney, I won’t be tied to a machine and can live freely without the constraints of dialysis.

Kathy’s sister, Diana, beautifully describes who Kathy is and the impact she’s had on her life. “Kathy’s journey with health challenges has been incredibly tough, yet she remains steadfast and optimistic. Many would struggle to endure the hardships she’s faced, but she emerges from them with an unwavering spirit and deep faith. Kathy is truly a blessing in my life; she’s not just my sister but also my ride or die friend. She’s stood by me through every challenge and celebration, and I can’t imagine navigating life without her.”

The wait times to get a kidney from a deceased donor average 3-5 years or longer. My doctors and transplant team have advised me to look for a living donor. Finding a living donor will help me get “off the list” sooner and on to living my life. A kidney from a living donor often has better outcomes, averaging 15 to 20 years or more versus 8-12 years for a deceased donor kidney. Most living donor surgeries are done laparoscopically and discharge from the hospital is usually 24-48 hours after surgery. The life expectancy of a living donor is typically longer than the average person.

To learn more about living kidney donation or start the testing process on my behalf, please contact:

Breanna Bronson

Living Donor Coordinator at The Christ Hospital 

Breanna.bronson@thechristhospital.com

513.585.1427

The living donor process is confidential, and I won’t be notified if you contact the transplant team. All costs for testing and surgery are covered by my insurance.

Please like, follow, and share my story on Facebook at KIDNEY FOR KATHY JO.

Thank you for considering giving the gift of life through living kidney donation. You could save my life or one of the 100,000 people waiting for a kidney transplant.

Kidney For Kathy Jo - FB Page  

From a Facebook post in February of 2025:

For those few of you who don't know, Shawn went to the E.R. for a bad headache. After a bit, the doctor stuck his head in the door and said, "Your kidneys are failing. It's above my pay grade. We are transferring you." That's how he found out he had ESRD.

That was 2 years ago. In the meantime, he has been working hard to get "On the List", and going to dialysis 3 times a week. It's a huge change for someone who lived an active lifestyle. Now he rarely has any energy or feels good enough to do the things he used to do. Just going to his doctor's appointments are enough to warrant a nap!

If you are interested in donating, you can reach his transplant coordinator, 

Breanna Bronson

Living Donor Coordinator at The Christ Hospital 

Breanna.bronson@thechristhospital.com

513.585.1427

Anyone can be tested, and even if you don't match Shawn, there is such a thing as paired donation.

BE ELENA’S HERO

Elena Prows is a 19-year-old who is sensitive, caring, and adventurous. She needs YOUR help. Elena’s in end stage kidney failure and needs a kidney transplant to save her life.

At the young age of 13, Elena was diagnosed with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD). After completing genetic testing, doctors were unable to determine the cause of her kidney disease but believe she was born with it. Elena is adopted from Guatemala and because she’s had no contact with her birth family it’s even more difficult to determine the cause of her disease. In recent years, Elena’s kidney function has gradually declined and she’s now in kidney failure.

There are only two treatments for people living with kidney failure: dialysis or transplant. Elena’s incredibly grateful she hasn’t had to start dialysis yet but that’s a reality she may face while waiting for a transplant. Dialysis is hard and something she hopes to avoid.

Looking at Elena, you might think she doesn’t look sick, but she is, and living with kidney failure is difficult. She experiences chronic fatigue, swelling, muscle weakness, and shortness of breath. She works full time at an event rental company and often comes home and has to take a nap. While her peers are active socially and physically, Elena often misses out because of her extreme exhaustion and lack of energy. It’s hard to be a teenager and watch your friends do things you wish you had the energy to do. In addition to working, Elena’s days are filled with numerous doctor’s appointments and tests. She’s had to alter her diet and closely watch her sodium (salt) intake, eliminate soda, and eat a healthier diet. Despite all these challenges, Elena’s a fighter and isn’t giving up!

Friends and family describe Elena as someone who is dedicated, hardworking, and cares deeply about others. She’s particularly tuned into caring for both of her grandmas, visiting them regularly. She genuinely enjoys spending time with them and doesn’t view it as a chore or obligation. She loves animals and has brought home at least 6 stray dogs over the years, much to the dismay of her father! Elena is creative and loves to draw, color, and design. She’s committed to her job and enjoys helping her customers and co-workers and often talks about how to make her workplace better. Elena was an active soccer player growing up and now loves attending FC Cincinnati soccer games. She has an innocence about her that makes her so loving and endearing.

Elena’s mother beautifully describes who Elena is and the impact she’s had on her life.

“Elena is so special to me. She came into our lives after we had a stillborn daughter in 2003. At the same time, I was diagnosed with peripartum cardiomyopathy which luckily, I survived. However, doctors advised us not to get pregnant again as there was an increased risk that it could return. Although we had our biological daughter, Camryn, who was 3, our family didn’t feel complete. After grieving and praying for over a year, we made the decision to adopt and bring this beautiful girl, Elena, into our lives. She was a gift and completed our family. She saved my life and gave me something to live for. I’ll forever be grateful for her and the special bond we share.”

A new kidney will give Elena a second chance at life. She’s young with a full life ahead of her. She looks forward to being the busy, active person she once was and playing soccer again. A new kidney will allow her to travel with her boyfriend. Last year, they spent 6 months hiking in Utah and she was able to endure an uphill climb that led to a beautiful view of the Arch. With a new kidney, she’ll have the energy to relive this trip of a lifetime. She’ll have more independence and can move into her own apartment. Elena will be able to fulfill the dream she had as a little girl of one day getting married and having children.

The wait times to get a kidney from a deceased donor average 3-5 years or longer. Elena’s doctors and transplant team have advised her to look for a living donor. Finding a living donor will help her get “off the list” sooner and on to living her life. A kidney from a living donor often has better outcomes, averaging 15 to 20 years or more versus 8-12 years for a deceased donor kidney. Most living donor surgeries are done laparoscopically and discharge from the hospital is usually 24-48 hours after surgery. The life expectancy of a living donor is typically longer than the average person.

To learn more about living kidney donation or start the testing process on Elena’s behalf, please contact:

Jackie D Haney  BSN, RN

Donor Transplant Coordinator at The Christ Hospital

jacqueline.hanley@thechristhospital.com

513-585-1440

The living donor process is confidential, and Elena won’t be notified if you contact the transplant team. All costs for testing and surgery are covered by Elena’s insurance.

Please like, follow, and share Elena’s story on Facebook at BE ELENA’S HERO.

Thank you for considering giving the gift of life through living kidney donation. You could save Elena’s life or one of the 100,000 people waiting for a kidney transplant.

Be Elena's Hero 

I hail from a close-knit Italian American family in New Jersey, where Sunday dinners and holidays were always a big affair. We shared many unforgettable moments, filled with love, laughter, and mouth-watering homemade meals prepared by my beautiful mother, who taught me the value of family and its importance in life. 

Unfortunately, my world turned upside down when I lost my mother at age 18, and I had to work part-time at a bank to support myself through high school. 

1972, I married a Vietnam War veteran and was blessed with two wonderful children. After a hiatus, I returned to work in 1982 at St. Michael's Medical Center, Newark, NJ, where I spent 23 years assisting patients with various health issues and consoling their loved ones. 

After leaving St. Michael's, I worked as a Billing Manager in Gastroenterology for four years before being blessed with a beautiful grandson in 2017. I enjoy spending time with him and taking him on fun-filled outings, but unfortunately, my kidney failure has put a damper on these activities lately. 

In 2022, I resumed my career as an office manager at a funeral home, where I provided compassion and dignity to family members during their difficult times. 

Due to Kidney Disease, I have been on temporary disability since December 20, 2023, and adjusting to hemodialysis has been challenging. I am currently employed with SCI and look forward to returning to work with them soon. Finding a kidney donor will enable me to do that and so much more!

I believe that everyone has a purpose as long as they have a pulse.

UC Kidney Transplant: Call for more information or to schedule an appointment: 513-584-7001

Jean Needs a Kidney FB Group 

https://jeanneedsakidney.com/ 

Jean's National Kidney Registry Link 

John Starkweather is a loving husband and father who has spent his life caring for others. Now John needs YOUR help. He’s been diagnosed with kidney failure and needs a kidney transplant to save his life.

John was born with Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD), a disorder that causes cysts to develop within the kidney, causing the kidneys to enlarge and eventually lose function. Sadly, John’s grandmother and mother both passed away from this genetically inherited disease. John managed the progression of the disease for over 40 years, but the PKD has taken a significant toll on his kidneys, leading to kidney failure. Because John’s kidneys are not able to perform their job of filtering the toxins out of his blood, he must begin treatment for his kidney failure. There are only two treatments for people living with kidney failure: dialysis or transplant. John’s incredibly grateful he hasn’t had to start dialysis yet but that’s a reality he may face while he waits for a transplant. Dialysis is hard and something he hopes to avoid.

Looking at John you might think he doesn’t look sick, but he is, and living with kidney failure is difficult. John must take regular breaks when he’s working in the garden or doing other household chores. His days are filled with numerous doctors’ appointments and medical tests. Like many suffering with kidney failure, he often experiences brain fog which makes keeping track of all his appointments more challenging. He’s had to step away from his regularly scheduled activities and is unable to make plans for the future. Because his father and grandfather both had heart attacks at an early age, John has taken measures to control his cholesterol and diet as well as undergo comprehensive cardiac testing. Thankfully, results from a recent heart catheterization show that John’s heart is healthy. Despite all these challenges, John isn’t giving up and continues to fight!

John’s been married to his wife, Melissa, for 40 years and together they’ve raised two adult children.   His children love his sense of humor that catches people by surprise and his knowledgeable insight. Evan, his son, fondly remembers how his dad would hand-craft birthday party decorations, plan summer road trips, and help with school projects—even if he only found out about the deadline the night before. John’s adventurous soul always led him to explore art, history, and the world around him, and he shared that curiosity and enthusiasm with his family. He worked tirelessly to ensure that his children had every opportunity to chart their own course in life, instilling in them a deep appreciation for learning and exploration.

John spent his career working as a mechanical engineer for General Electric before retiring to enjoy travelling and nature photography. People describe John as heroically humble, thoughtful, intelligent, adventurous, and curious about the world. He’s optimistic, patient, generous, and loving. John’s an excellent listener and brings a positive energy to his community, church, and world. He’s the type of person who strives to help others and make a difference.

Even with his own challenges, John has given back by tutoring and mentoring students. He’s active in his church and has participated and led small group studies. John’s a Stephen Minister and trained to provide weekly one-on-one care for those facing difficult circumstances. For the last several years, John’s been working on a graphic novel and is now collaborating with an artist to complete and publish his work.

A new kidney will allow John to spend more precious time with his family. His mother started dialysis days before her first grandchild was born. Although she was able to spend time with her grandchildren, the strain of dialysis meant they never knew her as the energetic and vibrant woman she’s always been. A new kidney will give John the opportunity to share activities with his future grandchildren without the constraints or hardship of dialysis. John will have the energy to resume his activities, continue to interact with people at church, and serve in his community.

The wait times to get a kidney from a deceased donor average 3-5 years or longer. John’s doctors and transplant team have advised him to look for a living donor. Finding a living donor will help him get “off the list” sooner and on to living his life. A kidney from a living donor often has better outcomes, averaging 15 to 20 years or more versus 8-12 years for a deceased donor kidney. Most living donor surgeries are done laparoscopically and discharge from the hospital is usually 24-48 hours after surgery. The life expectancy of a living donor is typically longer than the average person.

To learn more about living kidney donation or start the testing process on John’s behalf, please contact: 

Jackie D Haney  BSN, RN

Donor Transplant Coordinator at The Christ Hospital

jacqueline.hanley@thechristhospital.com

513-585-1440

The living donor process is confidential, and John won’t be notified if you contact the transplant team. All costs for testing and surgery are covered by John’s insurance.

Please like, follow, and share John’s story on Facebook at JOIN WITH JOHN.

Thank you for considering giving the gift of life through living kidney donation. You could save John’s life or one of the 100,000 people waiting for a kidney transplant.

Please follow John's Facebook group at: Join with John 

My wife, Hannah Leavy, is in need of a kidney transplant. She previously had a kidney transplant at 22 months old from her father that lasted 30 years. In early 2021, we found out she was in organ rejection and needed another transplant. Hannah was born with kidneys that were very small and did not function. She has only ever had one kidney. 

She has been listed at the University of Michigan for a kidney transplant since 9/2021 and started hemodialysis in June 2022. The current wait list in Michigan is 5-7 years for a cadaver kidney. If Hannah is able to find a living donor it would allow for her next kidney transplant to last approximately 15 to 20 years or longer like her last one! A cadaver kidney has significantly less projected success time than a living donor kidney.

Hannah's blood type is O+ which means she can get a kidney from an individual that has O+ and O-. If you do not have either of these blood types, you can still potentially be a donor through the paired donor program. The paired donor program would match you and Hannah to another recipient and donor that also do not have the same blood type and the donors would give to the opposite recipient. These paired donor chains can be up to 10+ pairs!  

The next step is to fill out this form:  

Michigan Medical Form 

The University of Michigan would then contact you with the next steps which includes testing and meeting with multiple healthcare professionals to assess your health to determine if you meet the criteria to be a kidney donor.

This gift would mean be a lot to both me, Hannah, and our friends/family. Hannah would be able to get back to the life she had prior to organ rejection and dialysis. She would continue to be able to work full time in career as a social worker and be able to be apart of life again as she is currently exhausted a majority of the time and under a great amount of stress. She currently works 40 hours a week and sits for 10 hours in the dialysis chair a week, which is very demanding on her body! 

Kidney Donation For Hannah  

Wyatt is our sweet 2.5 year old little boy who was born with PUV(posterior urethral valves). This means that Wyatt had a complete blockage in his urinary system when he was born. When he was 5 days old he had his first surgery to have those blockages removed. This took care of the blockage, but he was left with significant high pressure damage to both of his kidneys. He was born in Stage 4 Severe chronic kidney disease. We learned about Wyatt’s kidneys when he was in the womb. We went to our 20 week anatomy scan and learned that he was a boy, and also that he was a baby boy who was going to be born very sick. My prenatal care was transferred over to Children’s Mercy Hospitals fetal health center in Kansas City. Wyatt was born at Children's Mercy and immediately taken into the NICU.

His life has consisted of many appointments, months worth of hospitalizations, dozens of medications, surgeries, testing and imaging and just overall not feeling great.

Wyatt has finally reached a size appropriate to receive a kidney transplant. 

If you are interested in determining your eligibility please email The University of Kansas Center for Transplantation’s Transplant Coordinator, Samantha, at sbrenner@kumc.edu. The review process can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks.

The University of Kansas Health Center can also be reached at (913) 945-6929. Due to a high volume of calls received, this will sometimes go straight to voicemail.

Warrior Wyatt FB Group 

To learn more about living kidney donation, or start the testing process on Amy's behalf please contact:

Jackie D Haney  BSN, RN

Donor Transplant Coordinator at The Christ Hospital

jacqueline.hanley@thechristhospital.com

513-585-1440

Go Fund Me page for Amy 

I (Jazmine Moore) am a 25-year-old who people describe as selfless and caring. I’m young with dreams of one day having my own family. I need YOUR help. I’m in end stage kidney failure and need a kidney transplant to save my life.

When I was 15 years old and being treated for a urinary tract infection, doctors told me that my kidney function was declining. Within just a few months, I was in kidney failure. Unlike most teenage girls, I celebrated my Sweet 16 on dialysis and was placed on the kidney transplant list. In 2015, I was blessed with a kidney from a deceased donor and given a second chance at life.

My new kidney gave me freedom off dialysis. I had the energy to work two jobs. I spent precious time with family and was able to help care for my little cousin and sister. I enjoyed life without pain or discomfort. Sadly, after four years, the transplanted kidney failed. Shortly after that, I spent a long and difficult 7 months in the hospital. Even though it’s hard to face the reality I need another kidney transplant, I’m not giving up and approach each day filled with gratitude and joy.

While I wait for a transplant, I must do dialysis treatments to keep me alive. For the last 5 years, I have gone and continue to go to a dialysis clinic 3x a week. Each week, I spend 15 hours hooked up to a machine that helps filter the toxins out of my blood. Living with dialysis treatments and kidney failure is difficult. I often experience extreme fatigue, back pain, and tingling in my hands and feet.

In addition to dialysis treatments, I face other challenges. Every Tuesday and Thursday I have regular doctor’s appointments. I must alter my diet and am unable to eat many of the foods I once loved. I have to closely watch my sodium, phosphorous, potassium, and calcium which means no red sauces, alfredo, oranges, bananas, avocados, chicken, potatoes, and pasta. Unfortunately, these common and healthy foods will further damage my already failing kidneys.

People describe me as a loving wife and loyal friend. I’m optimistic and never say “what if”, but always “when.” Not if, but WHEN I get a new kidney, I will live life to its fullest! I love swimming (something I can’t do right now because of dialysis), walking the dog, and watching movies.

A new kidney will give me freedom off dialysis so I can spend meaningful time with my family and friends. I would like to return to work and pursue a career working with animals or children. A new kidney would allow me to fulfill my dream of starting a family through adoption, something that every 25-year-old woman should have the chance to do. I will be able to travel freely and visit my sister in Virginia, without the constraints of dialysis.

The wait times to get a kidney from a deceased donor can be 3-5 years. My doctors have advised me to look for a living donor. Finding a living donor will help me get “off the list” sooner and on to living my life. A kidney from a living donor often has better outcomes, averaging 15 to 20 years versus 8-12 years for a deceased donor kidney. Most living donor surgeries are done laparoscopically and discharge from the hospital is usually 24-48 hours after surgery. The life expectancy for a living donor is typically longer than the average person.

To learn more about living kidney donation or start the testing process on my behalf, please contact: 

Antoinette Fassoth

Living Donor Coordinator

The University of Cincinnati Transplant

513.584.0748 

antoinette.Fassoth@UCHealth.com

All costs for testing and surgery are covered by my insurance. Please like and follow my story on Facebook at A MATCH 4 JAZMINE.

Thank you for considering giving the gift of life through living kidney donation. You could save my life or one of the 100,000 people waiting.

A Match 4 Jazmine Facebook Group 

My name is Lynn Meeks, and I am one of the more than 100,000 people in our country that need a life-saving kidney transplant. This is my story.

I was diagnosed with chronic kidney disease at age 12, a condition that has impacted and taken over my entire life. As a teenager, I had to take harsh medication that caused hair loss (not so fun as a young woman), immunosuppression and fatigue. I could never quite keep up with my friends and family, a challenge that has become much more significant over the last few years as my kidney function has deteriorated, with no hope of a cure.

People who know me describe me as generous, loving and nurturing. My two adult children (who lost their father at a young age, leaving me as their sole parent) and my infant grand-daughter are the lights of my life - they are what offer me the hope and motivation to keep fighting. I spent my career managing a law firm, and the bulk of my adult life taking in and caring for lost-and-found dogs, many of whom required extensive medical care. Now, I am retired, spend time with my family in Cincinnati, help care for my 90 year old mother, and try to stay active to the extent possible, in bridge and euchre groups, and helping my sister in the community garden.

A new kidney will offer me the opportunity to watch my granddaughter grow up, and not leave my children parent-less. To watch my granddaughter start talking and start school, figure out who she will be. And to watch my children maybe one day have more grandkids, and have the opportunity to hug them and watch them grow, would be a dream. A kidney transplant will give me the energy and ability to resume a more “normal” life, instead of sitting on the sidelines of life, constantly exhausted and unable to do the things I want and need to do. It will help me not have to live in constant fear of a shortened life.

I am seeking a living donor because the average wait time for a deceased donor kidney is 5-7 years, and many die while waiting. Living donor kidneys offer better function and last much longer – given I am only 65 and otherwise generally healthy, that lifespan is critical. Healthy individuals only need one kidney to live a long, healthy life, and living donors often report a number of psychological benefits from giving the gift of life. The cost of evaluation, surgery, and travel (if needed) are all covered by my insurance.

My family and I appreciate your consideration and willingness to learn more about living donation more than you’ll ever know. To learn more or start the process on seeing if you could be a viable donor, please reach out to:

Breanna Bronson

Living Donor Coordinator at The Christ Hospital 

Breanna.bronson@thechristhospital.com

513.585.1427

LifeForLynn Facebook Group 

Life for Lynn Website 

My name is Anna Curvin and I’ve lived with kidney disease my entire life. I now need a kidney transplant to save my life. I’ve not let kidney disease define my life outcomes, but it’s been a rough journey. I’ve recently found the love of my life and will do whatever it takes to have the fullest possible life with the truest, deepest, love of my life for every minute I can.

I was diagnosed with kidney disease during the first year of my life after doctors discovered that my plumbing was not hooked up correctly. I spent my first birthday in the hospital; pictures show a smiling baby with circles under her eyes. Severe kidney disease was going to be front and center for all my young childhood and by the time I celebrated my 10th birthday, I’d already undergone multiple surgeries. My teen years were surgery free, but I suffered from frequent bladder infections. When I was 27 years old, doctors had to remove one of my kidneys. By the time I turned 50, my remaining kidney deteriorated and could no longer filter the toxins out of my blood. I was in end stage kidney failure and was told that I needed to start dialysis.

There are only two treatments for people living with kidney failure: dialysis or transplant. While I wait for a transplant, I must do dialysis treatments to keep me alive. Every night, I’m hooked up to a machine while I attempt to sleep. I spend almost 70 hours each week on dialysis. It’s grueling and I often experience extreme fatigue, dizziness, nausea, and weakness.  I’m not allowed to take a bath and it’s nearly impossible for me to travel, something I love to do.

When you live with chronic kidney disease your whole life, it becomes just as natural as having freckles. It’s always there but I’ve never let it stop me from doing what I want. People describe me as compassionate, resilient, dependable, and creative. I’ve managed dialysis, recovered from a difficult marriage, experienced depression following a traumatic event, and relocated multiple times within a few short months. Life hasn’t always been easy, but I won’t give up.

A new kidney will allow me to spend more time with my soulmate, Dale, and continue to my purpose in life to help others. My love for him is so deep, our life together is so happy and fulfilling. I want us to experience life to its fullest length possible and finding a living donor will make that possible. I would feel better, live a higher quality of life, and be able to show up for him and my community more completely. We want to do things as a couple without the restrictions of dialysis such as kayak, travel to the UK, and sit in a hot tub.

The wait times to get a kidney from a deceased donor can be 5-7 years. My doctors and transplant team have advised me to look for a living donor. Finding a living donor will help me get “off the list” sooner and on to living my life. Most living donor surgeries are done laparoscopically and discharge from the hospital is usually 24-28 hours after surgery. The life expectancy for a living donor is typically longer than the average person.

To learn more about living kidney donation or start the testing process on my behalf, please contactt:

Breanna Bronson

Living Donor Coordinator at The Christ Hospital 

Breanna.bronson@thechristhospital.com

513.585.1427  

All costs for testing and surgery are covered by my insurance. Please like and follow my story on Facebook  at SAVE ANNA: Save Anna Curvin 

Thank you for considering giving the gift of life through living kidney donation. You could save my life or one of the 100,000 people waiting.

Patrick has end stage renal disease and is currently doing dialysis, and is actively looking for a kidney donor.  

To learn more about living kidney donation or start the testing process on Patrick's behalf, please contact:

Breanna Bronson

Living Donor Coordinator at The Christ Hospital 

Breanna.bronson@thechristhospital.com

513.585.1427 

Local12 News Segment 

Patrick's Kidney Journey FB Group 

Would you be willing to donate a kidney or know someone who may be willing?

Hi, my name is Katie, and my dad is currently awaiting a match for a Kidney Transplant! He had a Kidney Transplant in 2008 that had been successful. Unfortunately, he recently went back into Kidney failure after 15 years. He has been on dialysis since September of 2023 and continues to require treatments 3 times a week. He is also on the waiting list for deceased donors, but the waiting list is currently 3-5 years.

We are praying and believing for a miracle! Join us in support with prayers!

Please reach out if you have any questions & feel free to share this page!

If you are interested in donating, feel free to message me, shoot us an email @ Kidney4RickV@gmail.com, or register to be a donor at omnilife.health/uc-living-donor

Kidney 4 Rick FB Group 

From her daughter, Molly:

IN SEARCH OF A HERO – Share your spare!

If you know my mom, you know asking for help from our social media community really is stepping out of her comfort zone. That’s where I come in. My mom needs a new kidney and we need your help! If you could please Like and Share this post to spread the word, we would be so grateful! Don’t be shy! The more people we can reach, the better the chance of finding a living donor!

Her story is below:

“Hi family and friends. I’m stepping way out of my comfort zone here as I ask for your help in sharing my story to find a living kidney donor. I have been living with a hereditary kidney disease called PKD (polycystic kidney disease) for over 20 years. With careful monitoring, medication, and diet, I have fortunately been able to lead a relatively symptom-free life. I have been able to enjoy precious time with my family, travel with my husband, and continue to work full-time in a career I love.

However, my kidneys are now waging an all-out war against me and I’m in immediate need of a transplant.

The ideal scenario for a successful transplant is to find a living donor, prior to being placed on dialysis. Though I’m on the deceased donor registry with United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS), there are thousands of people ahead of me on this registry, and sadly many will not receive a life-saving transplant in time.

Following the recent cancer diagnosis of my 22-month-old grandson, I initially hesitated to pursue a kidney transplant. After all, I needed to help support my family!  A swift kick in the pants by my transplant coordinators made me realize I would be of no use to them if I neglect my own health. So here I am, with a hopeful heart, asking for your help.

THE BIG ASK:  I would deeply appreciate your liking and sharing this post to keep it active on Facebook.  If you are interested in being a kidney donor, please see Christ Hospital’s Kidney Transplant website for information on becoming a living kidney donor.

I understand the enormity of this request and approach it with humility and immense gratitude. Your willingness to spread awareness and potentially change the course of my life is a gift beyond measure.”

Christ Hospital - Donor Registration Packet

Please keep Liking and Sharing! Let’s find my mom a kidney!

Donor Transplant Coordinator: jacqueline.hanley@thechristhospital.com

Jackie's phone: 513-585-1440

Archie's transplant has been scheduled.  

Please follow at his Facebook page: Archie's Army 

As of March, it looks like Kendall has a candidate donor.  Please see her gofundme page for donor expenses: https://www.gofundme.com/f/kidney-donor-expense-fund

News segment on Kendall: Dayton 247 Now  

My name is Kendall Millette

I’m 17-years old.

I was born with a birth defect that has been repaired, but irreparably damaged both of my kidneys.

I NEED ONE KIDNEY TO LIVE

To live with my parents, my sister Carley who is attending The Ohio State University, and my aussiedoodle, Aussie.

To make memories with my Parents, Sister, Grandparents, Aunts & Uncles, Cousins, and my best friend Barb.

To attend Mason High School, where I enjoy activities with great friends, teachers, therapists, aides and lunch ladies.

My favorite activities are outdoors with people I love.

I enjoy swimming, boating and time on the beach.

I love riding horses, bikes, and roller coasters.

Indoors I enjoy movies, books, & Tik Tok.

I love visiting and bringing joy to others.

And I love to laugh!

In 2018, my kidney function declined significantly.

My kidney disease is worsening steadily.

My prayer is that I receive a kidney before dialysis is necessary.

BUDDY (Bryan) NEEDS A KIDNEY:  In August 2018, at the age of 60, Bryan suffered a stroke while working at a high school. He was found in the bathroom by his son and rushed to the ER. Thankfully, the stroke left him with minimal physical damage. However, bloodwork revealed that he was in stage 4 kidney disease and would likely need a kidney transplant in the future. As a family, we visited The Christ Hospital to learn more about the transplant program. The team advised Bryan to change his diet to prolong the function of his kidneys. He successfully made these dietary changes and lost 30 pounds. In July 2019 he had gastric sleeve surgery and lost another 100 pounds. It was a lot of hard work but Bryan was committed to losing his weight so that he would be a better transplant candidate.

In January 2020, Bryan began the testing process to be placed on the kidney transplant list and then the COVID pandemic struck the nation. In November 2020, Bryan started dialysis 3 times a week for 4 hours at a time, after working all day. After Thanksgiving, he contracted COVIDand was hospitalized for six days. In May 2021, after suffering severe abdominal pain, Brian had emergency surgery which resulted in removing half of his colon and leaving him with an ileostomy. Unfortunately, this medical crisis was a side effect of the dialysis, but he was fortunate and had his ileostomy reversed in August.

Today, dialysis continues. Bryan had to retire because he could no longer work and keep up with all of his dialysis treatments. He NEVER misses an appointment. He is committed to living a fuller life again.

Bryan loves The Ohio State Buckeyes football. He is a proud graduate of Hanover College.  He is the best husband, father, father-in-law and grandfather. He’s the best friend that a person could want. He is a loving and compassionate person. He coached wrestling and football working especially hard for each child to have success. He sees value in everyone and gives more than he receives. He is a wonderful person.

A living donor gives him an opportunity to resume doing the things he loves, like traveling, enjoying his two beautiful grandchildren, Pace and Piper (they call him Buddy). Please take the time to learn about being a living donor over 100,000 people in this country need a life-saving kidney transplant. For more information please contact:

Tricia.Monson@thechristhospital.com 

513-585-1400. Your inquiry is confidential.

Remember…BUDDY NEEDS A KIDNEY

Buddy Needs  a Kidney FB Group