First published 2024-09-27 10:13:50
A Michigan-based organization called Kidneys for Kids is on a mission to recruit living adult kidney donors for children nationwide, as well as provide financial assistance for related costs not covered by insurance. Founded by Brian, who became a living kidney donor in 2013, and his wife, the organization seeks to alleviate the shortage of kidneys for approximately 2,000 children across the country. They also offer similar services to help adults, like Jamie Nichols, who will be five years post-kidney transplant this January, thanks to a donor. Nichols now serves as the board president for Kidneys for Kids, contributing her experience to aid both children and adults in need of kidney transplants in Michigan and beyond.
Sarah Newton, who discovered she had polycystic kidney disease at age 13, has been on dialysis for just over a year after a failed attempt at peritoneal dialysis. Despite these challenges, Newton is hopeful for a new lease on life that will allow her to spend quality time with friends and family without being tethered to a dialysis machine. Her connection with Jamie Nichols, stemming from their mothers’ simultaneous dialysis treatments, is a poignant reminder of the community and support systems that develop through shared medical experiences.
Similarly, Steve Burnett, a musician who has also been affected by hereditary kidney disease, shares his story of battling hypertension and lifestyle-induced kidney issues. The diagnosis led to a significant lifestyle shift and ongoing dialysis treatments. Despite the challenges, Burnett remains optimistic about the possibility of receiving a transplant, which he believes could restore his ability to tour and perform regularly. Both patients’ stories highlight the critical need for living kidney donors and underscore the mission of organizations like Kidneys for Kids in helping individuals regain their health and freedom through organ donation.
