When you think of a hero, what image comes to mind? Maybe it is someone with superhuman strength or a brave firefighter rushing into a burning building. But in my world, a hero is someone who makes the life-saving decision to become a living kidney donor.

Three years ago, my life took a turn that I never expected. At the age of 62, I found myself dealing with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), a condition that has gradually taken over my life and led me to the arduous routine of dialysis. For those who may not be familiar, dialysis is a process that mimics the function of kidneys, removing waste and excess fluids from the blood. But it is not a perfect solution—far from it. Dialysis is time-consuming, physically draining, and comes with its own set of complications. While it keeps me alive, it is not the life I want to live. And that is where you—yes, you—come into the picture.

The Reality of Dialysis

Dialysis is a lifeline, but it is also a tether. It keeps me grounded, but not in the way one might hope. Instead of spending my days out in the world, working on projects, connecting with friends, and enjoying life, I am tied to a machine for several hours at a time, multiple times a week. It is not just the time commitment; it is the physical toll. Dialysis leaves me exhausted, and even when I am not hooked on to the machine, I am often too fatigued to do much of anything.

There are days when I feel like I am barely holding on. The routine is grueling, and the restrictions on my diet, fluid intake, and daily activities make it even harder. But I push through because I know there is a light at the end of the tunnel. That light is a kidney transplant.

The Gift of Life

A kidney transplant would be life-changing—not just for me, but for everyone in my life. It would mean freedom from the dialysis machine, a chance to regain my strength and energy, and an opportunity to truly live again. I could return to my work with renewed vigor, continue writing, and even start traveling again. But more than that, it would mean that I could be there, fully present, for the people I care about.

Becoming a living donor is no small decision. It is a commitment, and it is a gift that cannot be overstated. When you choose to donate a kidney, you are not just giving up an organ—you are giving someone their life back. You are giving them the chance to live without the constant shadow of illness hanging over them, to dream and plan for a future that is not dictated by the next dialysis appointment.

Why I Need a Hero Now

Living with CKD and being on dialysis is like living in a state of limbo. My life is on hold, and everything revolves around managing this condition. I have had to put my passions, my ambitions, and even my everyday joys on the back burner. It is hard to describe the toll this takes on a person—not just physically, but mentally and emotionally as well.

I have always been a fighter. I have faced challenges before and come out stronger on the other side. But this is different. This is a battle that I cannot win on my own. I need help. I need a hero.

And that is why I am reaching out to you. You could be that hero. You could be the one who helps me end this chapter of my life and start a new one, free from the chains of dialysis.

The Process of Becoming a Donor

If you are reading this and wondering how you can help, the first step is to learn more about the process of becoming a living kidney donor. It is a process that starts with a simple conversation and some preliminary tests to determine if you are a match. From there, the medical team will guide you through each step, ensuring that you are fully informed and supported throughout the journey.

Donating a kidney is a big decision, but it is also one of the most selfless acts a person can perform. The risks are minimal, and the reward—knowing that you have saved a life—is immeasurable.

A Future Full of Possibilities

What would my life look like after a kidney transplant? It is a question I ask myself every day. I imagine waking up in the morning with energy, ready to tackle the day ahead. I imagine diving back into my work with a clear mind, free from the brain fog that dialysis so often brings. I imagine spending time with friends and loved ones without the constant worry of scheduling around treatments.

But most of all, I imagine living. Really living. Not just surviving day-to-day, but thriving, with the freedom to pursue my passions and dreams.

This is the future I am fighting for, but it is a future that is just out of reach without the help of a living donor.

The Impact of Your Heroism

By choosing to become a kidney donor, you are not just impacting my life—you are impacting the lives of everyone around me. My friends, my family, my colleagues—they are all affected by my health. When I am struggling, they are struggling too. But with a transplant, everything changes. I will have the strength to support others, to give back, and to have influence in ways that I simply cannot right now.

Your decision to donate could inspire others to do the same, creating a ripple effect of kindness and generosity. It is a legacy that goes far beyond the immediate impact—it is a lasting testament to the power of compassion.

A Call to Action

So, here is my call to action: If you have ever considered becoming a living donor, or if this is the first time you are learning about the possibility, take the time to explore it. Talk to your family, do some research, and reach out to me if you have any questions. I am more than happy to share my journey and answer any questions you might have about the process.

If you decide that you are ready to take the next step, know that you are not just becoming a donor—you are becoming a hero. You are becoming the person who can end my dialysis journey and give me the chance to live the life I have been dreaming of for so long.

In Conclusion

I have been on this journey for three long years, and I have faced challenges that I never imagined I would. But I am still here, still fighting, and still hopeful. There is a hero out there for me—someone who is willing to make the incredible decision to donate a kidney and change my life forever.

If you think you could be that hero, or if you know someone who might be, please reach out. Let us talk about how you can help me end this chapter of my life and start a new one—one full of hope, possibilities, and the chance to truly live again.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story. Your support, your kindness, and your willingness to consider becoming a donor mean the world to me.