Steven P

Living with kidney disease has tested me in ways I never imagined. It’s not just the physical toll of dialysis and medical appointments—it’s the emotional and mental weight of knowing that my health is out of my control. There have been moments when I’ve missed out on family activities, time with my grandkids, and even the ability to fully contribute at work. Simple things I used to take for granted, like hiking or helping my wife Gina around the house, have become daily challenges.

Receiving a kidney from a living donor would change everything for me. It would give me a chance to feel like myself again, to have the energy to be there for my loved ones, and to live without the constant worry of how much longer I can hang on. But it’s not just the recipient who benefits from living donation—it’s the donor too. When someone decides to donate a kidney, they not only save a life but also experience the incredible feeling of knowing they’ve made a difference in a person’s life, someone like me. That’s something truly special.

The kindness of a stranger—someone willing to make such a selfless act—can truly #makeadifference in my life. It’s not just about the kidney; it’s about the renewed hope, the strength, and the future that it brings. If you or someone you know might consider donating a kidney, I ask you to take the first step toward making a difference.

This is one of the most common misconceptions about living kidney donation. In truth, kidney donation is a safe procedure for healthy individuals. While all surgeries carry some risk, living kidney donors are carefully evaluated to ensure they are in excellent health before surgery. Most donors return home within a few days and resume normal activities in just a few weeks.

But despite the uncertainty, there’s a glimmer of hope. The idea of finding a living kidney donor keeps me going. Unlike the long wait for a deceased donor, a living donor means a better chance at a quicker recovery and a brighter future. It’s not just about receiving a kidney—it’s about regaining my life. A living donor can give me the opportunity to be there for my family, to help my wife who has her own health struggles, and to get back to work without the constant fatigue and limitations.

This journey has been filled with challenges, from dealing with the exhaustion and limitations of dialysis to missing out on so many activities I once loved. But through it all, I know that the more people who hear my story, the closer I get to finding a match. Every person who shares my message, whether through social media, word of mouth, or simply passing it along to someone who might be able to help, brings me one step closer to the lifesaving kidney I need.

I’ve often hoped that a family member or close friend would be able to donate, but unfortunately, they don’t always meet the necessary criteria. It’s disheartening, especially when kidney disease has already drained so much of my energy.  Also, it’s hard on family to learn that they can’t donate – often times for medical reasons.