CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA, USA: Dr. Anthony Davis, president of Livingstone College, recently made a heartfelt appeal during a commencement ceremony, urging attendees to help him find a kidney transplant donor. Struggling with end-stage renal disease, Dr. Davis, who has kept his condition private since becoming president in 2022, emphasized the courage it took to seek assistance. His call to action, part of a campaign titled “Be My Match,” aimed to rally support from the community and those he has served.
In an emotional interview, Dr. Davis detailed his ongoing battle with the illness, which necessitates nightly peritoneal dialysis for nine hours a day. Despite the challenges of his condition, he remains committed to his leadership role, highlighting notable accomplishments at the college under his tenure, such as doubling the freshman class size and raising more than $50 million in funding. Dr. Davis expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support he’s received since his announcement, with individuals from his past and present stepping forward to undergo testing to determine if they’re a match.
As the college community rallies around him, Dr. Davis remains optimistic, stating, “I have kidney disease, but kidney disease does not have me.” His determination extends beyond his health challenges as he focuses on raising awareness for kidney disease while continuing to fulfill his duties at Livingstone College. The “Be My Match” campaign not only highlights his personal struggle but also serves to educate others about end-stage renal disease and the importance of organ donation.
Dr. Davis’s story resonates with many, particularly in light of statistics showing that over 800,000 people in the U.S. live with end-stage renal disease. His journey is a poignant reminder of the need for compassion and community support in the face of health crises, encouraging others to consider organ donation as a vital option.
