Hello, I am Don Schmidt, a 62-year-old book publishing professional and a lifelong lover of books and learning. Three years ago, my life took an unexpected turn when I was diagnosed with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Since then, my journey has been one of resilience and hope, navigating the challenges that come with living on dialysis while searching for a kidney donor. Today, I am reaching out to share my story and to ask for your help in a very personal battle.

The Journey of Chronic Kidney Disease

My journey with CKD began subtly with symptoms that were easy to dismiss as signs of aging or fatigue. However, the diagnosis was a stark reality that changed everything. The initial shock was overwhelming, not just for me but also for my family. CKD is a progressive disease, which means it gradually worsens over time. As my kidney function declined, so did my energy and my ability to engage in daily activities I once took for granted.

Life changed significantly as I began to accommodate numerous hospital visits, dietary restrictions, and the inevitable onset of dialysis. These adjustments were necessary not just physically but emotionally, as each step reminded me of the gravity of my condition.

Life on Dialysis

Three years ago, my condition necessitated the start of dialysis. Dialysis does the work of your kidneys when they can no longer fulfill their role effectively. Three times a week, for four hours each session, I am hooked to a machine that cleans my blood, removing toxins and managing fluid levels. While this treatment is life-sustaining, it is also life-limiting.

The routine is grueling and comes with its own set of challenges. There’s physical exhaustion, the difficulty of managing side effects, and the emotional toll of knowing that this machine is what stands between me and a fatal accumulation of toxins in my body. Dialysis also limits my ability to travel and engage in spontaneous activities, tethering me to my treatment schedule.

The Hope for a Kidney Transplant

Despite these challenges, there is hope. A kidney transplant represents a chance for a new lease on life—a return to normalcy, or at least a new normal, where dialysis is not the focal point of my day. Transplants can last for many years, and they offer recipients better quality of life and longer survival than dialysis.

Finding a living donor, however, is not easy. The waiting list for a deceased donor’s kidney can be several years long, and many do not have the luxury of time. A living donor’s kidney tends to function better and last longer, which is why finding a living donor is so crucial.

The Call for a Living Donor

Becoming a living donor is a generous act of kindness that can save a life. You have thought about donation but were concerned about the risks. Let me assure you that kidney donation is a well-understood and remarkably safe procedure. Donors go through a thorough screening process to ensure their safety and health. The medical community provides immense support before, during, and after the donation.

If you are considering this gift of life, I encourage you to reach out to my transplant team for an evaluation to see if you are a match. Even if you are not a match for me, you could be for someone else in similar need.

How You Can Help

If donating is not possible for you, there are other ways to help. Spreading the word, sharing my story, and educating others about kidney disease and the importance of donation can also save lives. Awareness leads to action.

Conclusion

Every day, I wake up hoping today might be the day I find a donor, the day my life turns a corner. Your help, whether by considering donation or by spreading the word, could make a profound difference. Together, we can turn the tide against kidney disease. Thank you for reading my story and for any support you can offer.