Hello, dear readers,

As many of you know, I am Don Schmidt, also known as The Book Kahuna. For 35 years, I have been immersed in the world of book publishing, bringing stories and ideas to life. But today, I am here to share a different kind of story—my own.

The Beginning of the Battle

Three years ago, my life took an unexpected turn. I was diagnosed with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), a condition that silently creeps up on you until it becomes impossible to ignore. The news hit me hard, like a plot twist I never saw coming. Suddenly, my life was filled with medical jargon, frequent hospital visits, and the constant hum of a dialysis machine.

Dialysis has become a part of my routine. It is not glamorous, and it is certainly not easy. But it keeps me alive, and for that, I am grateful. However, dialysis is not a cure. It is a temporary measure, a bridge to something better—a kidney transplant.

The Reality of Waiting

Waiting for a kidney is a bit like waiting for a bestseller to hit the shelves. There’s anticipation, hope, and an unshakable belief that it will happen. But the reality is, the waiting list for a deceased donor kidney is long. Some wait for years; others, tragically, never get the chance.

This is where my plea begins. I am not just writing this to share my story—I am reaching out in the hope of finding a living donor. Someone who can give me a chance at a new chapter, a chance to live without the chains of dialysis.

Understanding Kidney Donation

I know what you might be thinking. “Kidney donation? Isn’t that a big deal?” The answer is yes, it is a big deal. But it is also a life-saving gift that one person can give to another. Unlike many other organs, we are born with two kidneys but only need one to live a healthy, normal life. This means that living kidney donation is not just possible; it is a widespread practice with a high success rate.

The Process of Donation

Becoming a living donor involves several steps. First, there is a screening process to ensure you are a suitable candidate. This includes blood tests, urine tests, and other medical evaluations. If you are deemed a match, the next step is surgery. It is important to note that the surgery is performed laparoscopically, which means smaller incisions and a quicker recovery time.

Post-surgery, donors usually stay in the hospital for a few days and can return to their normal activities within a few weeks. The risks are minimal, and the benefits are immeasurable—not just for the recipient, but for the donor as well. Many donors report feeling a profound sense of satisfaction and fulfillment, knowing they have made a life-saving difference.

The Gift of Life

I have dedicated my life to books, to stories, to the power of the written word. But now, I am asking for something beyond words—a chance to continue living, to keep writing new chapters, and to keep sharing stories with all of you.

If you have ever considered becoming an organ donor, I urge you to take the next step. If you have not, I ask you to think about it now. Your decision to donate could be the reason someone gets to see another sunrise, hug their loved ones, and continue their journey.

How You Can Help

If you are interested in learning more about kidney donation, I encourage you to reach out to your local transplant center. They can provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision. You can also visit websites like the National Kidney Foundation (www.kidney.org) for resources and support.

And if you are considering donating directly to me, please reach out. Your generosity could be the key to unlocking a future where I can live free from the constraints of dialysis.

A Personal Plea

This is not just about me. It is about all the people like me who are waiting, hoping, and dreaming of a second chance. It is about families who stand by, helpless, watching their loved one’s struggle. It is about the collective strength and compassion of our community.

Every day, I am reminded of the fragility of life and the incredible resilience of the human spirit. I have faced many challenges, but I have also experienced tremendous support from friends, family, and readers like you. Your encouragement keeps me going, even on the toughest days.

A Future Full of Possibilities

Imagine a world where more people step forward to become living donors. Imagine the lives saved, the families kept whole, the dreams realized. It is a future full of possibilities, one that we can help create together.

In closing, I want to thank you for taking the time to read my story. Your support means the world to me. Whether you choose to become a donor or help spread the word, know that you are making a difference.

Let us write this next chapter together—a chapter of hope, generosity, and life.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Don Schmidt, The Book Kahuna