A living altruistic donor, someone who chose to give a kidney to a person they had never met, stepped forward and gave me a second chance at life. I am transplanted, healthy and more grateful than I can put into words.
To everyone who prayed, shared this page, called Tampa General or got tested to see if you could help: thank you. You were part of this whether or not you were a match.
The full story is one I share by voice, not in print. I will gladly tell it to you in person.
I talk privately with anyone facing kidney failure, waiting for a transplant or considering being a living donor. I share what I learned, where I had my surgery and the practical things I wish someone had told me sooner. No pressure and no sales pitch, just one person who has been there. Text me at 239-273-7430 and mention the kidney page.
If you feel called to be a living donor for someone else, start here: TampaGeneralLivingDonation.org
I am keeping this here as part of my testimony and because thousands of people are still waiting for their own second chance.
My lovely friends and clients, I do have some news for you and I think I should share. I am counting on you for your help and maybe even some special help. I want to assure you that I am the healthiest not-well person you ever will see so don’t be overly worried. I’m in kidney failure. It’s not sudden. I’ve dealt with this issue most of my life and these raggedy ol’ kidneys have actually made it further than their anticipated life expectancy.
First and foremost, thank you for your support and prayers. I truly believe in the power of prayer and know, like I know, like I know, that there is a plan and a solution already in place. It just hasn’t revealed itself yet.
If you don’t know me personally, you should know that I have made the absolute most of my time on earth doing every daredevil stunt that crossed my path; jumping out of planes, double black glacier skiing, competitive running and paddleboarding, just to name a few. Most importantly I have, with great purpose, stored my treasures in heaven by being the hands and feet of God and helping others, every chance that I could.
It’s rare that I would ask for help but now is the time. It is a very big ask. I am currently looking for a donor who will give me the ultimate gift of life by donating a kidney. This is not something to enter into lightly.
For those who are wondering:
First, I am ok. I am not in pain or suffering. This disease is genetic and there was no way to stop it. I’ve had scads of tests to qualify for a new kidney and so far that’s really the only issue I have.
Second, I promise to not think any different of anyone that doesn’t have the ability or feel the calling to help. It is quite a slim margin of people who are eligible due to their own health issues and age. Sadly, my current close circle of friends and family members have already been rendered ineligible as donors. I promise that I still love them all. ;-)
Third, I want to take this opportunity to bring organ donor awareness to you all. You may know a little about it from far away stories. I am now the face of it in Bonita Springs, Florida, so I hope you will not get uncomfortable and stop reading here because what I am about to say is very important! Whether it is today or in the future you may have an opportunity to elect to be an organ donor on your driver license or while making your wishes known in your estate planning.
After you make the election to become an organ donor, please let your family know about your wishes. Miracles happen every day and it is because of good people like you who make a small election to become a donor.
Thank you. I love you all.
PS if you read this far, take care of your kidney beans. Watch your salt intake, drink lots of water and check your blood pressure often.
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