Over the past few years, Thuan’s health has taken a drastic turn. Years of high blood pressure led to kidney disease, and now his kidneys are failing. He’s been on dialysis since 2023, but dialysis is only a temporary solution. What he urgently needs is a lifesaving kidney transplant.
As Steve’s advocate, I’m doing everything I can to help find him a living kidney donor. If you’ve ever thought about becoming a donor, please take a moment to learn more. And even if you can’t donate, sharing Steve’s story could help us find the person who can.
Simon is one of the kindest, most thoughtful people we know. He’s the guy who shows up for his friends without hesitation, who makes people feel truly heard, and who somehow keeps his sense of humor even through the toughest days. Now, he needs us to show up for him.
A living donor could mean a shorter wait, a better match, and a healthier future. It means fewer complications, more stability, and a real chance at getting my life back. To wake up with energy again, to travel, to laugh freely with my family without worrying about machines or medications—that’s what I’m holding on to.
To me, receiving a kidney from a living donor epitomizes #thankyou in the purest form. It’s a thank you to someone brave enough to help another person thrive. It’s a thank you for more time with loved ones, for future memories not yet made, and for the chance to feel healthy again.
Right now in the United States, more than 100,000 people are waiting for a kidney transplant. The demand is high, and sadly, many patients wait years for a kidney from a deceased donor. During that time, their health can decline, making the wait even more difficult.
Across the United States, more than 100,000 people are currently waiting for a kidney transplant—and the list continues to grow. Unfortunately, the wait for a deceased donor kidney can take years, and during that time, many patients like Rich face worsening health and increased challenges.
I have learned that strength does not mean doing everything on your own. It means accepting help when you need it and knowing that you are not alone in your struggle. I am surrounded by people who care and that gives me hope. That gives me courage.
But through all of this, what continues to lift me up is support. The smallest act of kindness makes a difference. Whether it is someone sharing my story or just reaching out to check in, it reminds me that I am not alone. A conversation, a prayer, or simply spreading awareness about organ donation can ripple out in ways none of us may ever fully see.
Living kidney donation is also incredibly safe. Thousands of people each year choose to donate a kidney and go on to live long, healthy lives. In fact, many living donors say they would donate again if they could.
