Michael Needs a Living Kidney Donor
“I imagine that it’s probably a little bit scary when you think about giving up a kidney, but in reality you are going to help someone else have a much better quality of life. I am just so grateful that anyone would be willing to give a kidney to someone else so that they might have a better quality of life.“
Michael’s Story
Michael is a beloved husband, father, and grandfather to 19 incredible grandchildren who adore him. He has dedicated over three decades to shaping young lives as a high school wrestling coach in Utah. Known for his unwavering positivity and dedication, he’s been a beacon of inspiration to countless students, embodying the spirit of resilience and mentorship.
Diagnosed with kidney disease in his 30s, Michael has faced his health challenges with strength and determination. Now, as he seeks a kidney transplant, he faces a daunting wait on the deceased donor list which may last over 5 years. To expedite his journey back to health and continue his invaluable presence in the lives of his loved ones, Michael is actively seeking a living kidney donor. Your generosity could make a profound difference, allowing Michael to cherish more moments with those he holds dear. Please join us in supporting Michael, who has selflessly given to others throughout his life.
Donor Eligibility Requirements
Michael is extremely lucky to have secured highly qualified medical help and support from the team at the University of Utah Health (UUH). He wants any interested persons to know that they will be in exceptional hands should they decide to step forward. UUH has shared the following as a pre-qualification list for donation:
Must be between the age of 18-69 years old.
Must be healthy and free of major health problems such as high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, obesity (BMI of 37 or less).
Must be mentally and emotionally healthy.
You Can Help Save Michael's Life!
Interested In Donating?
Complete the short contact form and a GiftWorks' Living Donor Navigator will respond within 1 day to guide you through the next steps in the process.
Did you step forward in the past or have questions about donating?
Having questions is normal! Complete the short contact form to set up a time to speak with a GiftWorks' Living Donor Navigator; a guide who knows what it's like to donate a kidney because they've donated in the past.
Want To Help In Other Ways?
You can help by sharing Michael's page today! Also, be sure to share Michael's posts on social media each week to spread awareness of his story. Sharing posts is one of the best ways to help Michael find his lifesaving donor.
Process for Stepping Forward for Michael
Fill out the short contact form and a GiftWorks’ Living Donor Navigator will reach out to you within 1 business day to set up a time to connect.
During your time with a GiftWorks’ Living Donor Navigator, you will get to ask questions and receive answers from a living kidney donor. They will tell you more about the process, address non-medical concerns, and connect you to valuable resources.
Breeze is a health questionnaire that will be reviewed by the hospital’s medical team to determine your eligibility for living donation as well as the next steps.
Share To Help
Please Help! I’m Searching For a Living Kidney Donor
I’m reaching out today because I’m in urgent need of a living kidney donor to save my life.
The most important people in my life are my wonderful wife, Tracey, and my children and their spouses. We’re blessed with 19 amazing grandchildren who bring so much joy to our lives. My extended family has been incredibly supportive, with several of them stepping forward to be tested, but unfortunately, we have not yet found a match. I’m also grateful for the love and friendship of our church community, neighborhood, and the many friends I’ve made over the years. After coaching wrestling for 36 years in Utah, I’ve had the honor of building lasting relationships with so many students and athletes, all of whom mean the world to me.
My kidney disease has taken a huge toll on my life. One of the hardest parts has been losing the ability to do the things I love. My energy has diminished as my kidney function declines, and I’m cold all the time. My illness has kept me from traveling and spending time with my family the way I had always hoped to in my retirement. It breaks my heart that I can’t fully enjoy those moments with my wife and kids.
If I were to receive a new kidney, my life would be transformed. I’d finally be able to travel and spend quality time with my loved ones, doing the things I’ve longed to do. I’d have the energy to live life fully again and enjoy the activities that bring me happiness. The simple things, like feeling warm and energized, would be such a blessing.
I’m asking for help in finding a living kidney donor. If you or someone you know would consider being tested as a donor, it could truly save my life. Please visit my website to learn more about my situation, and if possible, apply to become my living donor. giftworksuuh.com/michaelr
Please Save Michael’s Life!
One of the greatest feelings in the world is helping to change someone’s life for the better. By donating a kidney, you’re giving someone a chance at life, and that is truly incredible.
I’m reaching out today for someone very special to me, Michael, who urgently needs a living kidney donor. His courage and strength inspire everyone around him, and he has so much more to offer the world. We’re hoping that a compassionate and generous person will step forward to provide her with the ultimate gift—the gift of life.
You could be Michael’s missing puzzle piece. For more information about his journey and how you can help, visit the link to his website in the comments below.
I’m Still Looking For a Living Kidney Donor!
Did you know that donating a kidney can open the door to a brighter, healthier future for someone in need? When you donate a kidney, you’re giving the gift of life and a second chance. Think about the incredible impact you can have on someone’s journey toward a better life, filled with hope and new opportunities.
Right now, I’m in need of a living kidney donor. If you’re considering becoming a living donor or want to learn more about my journey, please visit my website, which is linked in the comments. Your support means everything to me!
Together, we can make miracles happen.
Questions & Answers
WAS MICHAEL'S FAMILY TESTED?
Many people do not know that even when family members step forward for a patient like Michael, they may not be a match or be healthy enough to donate. In some cases, the best match is someone outside the family. This is why we are sharing Michael's story with as many people as possible.
DO I NEED INSURANCE TO DONATE?
While the recipient's insurance will provide coverage for the donor, the donor needs to have their own health insurance in the rare event an unknown health issues comes up for the donor.
WHAT ABOUT MY EXPENSES?
While the recipient's insurance covers all costs related to the donation (for Michael and his donor), there are expenses like travel, meals, and lost wages that can be incurred. However, we want you to know there are resources available to ensure you do not have to pay for anything out of pocket. The GiftWorks' team can provide more information about those resources if you choose to step forward as a living donor.
HOW LONG IS THE RECOVERY PROCESS?
Living kidney donors are often able to return to work within 2 weeks, and fully heal within 6-8 weeks. After surgery, the donor’s remaining kidney will also grow in size and function, allowing them to live normal life with just one kidney.
WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS TO DONATE?
The following are pre-qualification requirements for living donation: must be between the age of 18-69 years old, must be healthy and free of major health problems such as high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, and obesity (BMI of 37 or less), and must be mentally and emotionally healthy.
WHAT HAPPENS IF MICHAEL DOES NOT FIND A DONOR?
The ideal outcome is for Michael is to find a living donor. He has already battled so much with his kidney disease that being on the kidney transplant waiting list for 3-5 years is simply not ideal. Long-term dialysis is also not ideal as it can lead to a variety of complications such as low blood pressure, injection site infection, and blood clots.
