Support Jared's need of a good used "Kidney”

We hope this message finds you well. We are writing to share the story of a valued member of our community, Jared Hund, who is currently facing significant health challenges. As many of you may know, Jared has long been an active member of the recycling community, consistently giving his time and efforts to support sustainable practices. However, Jared is now confronting a battle that no one should have to face: he is struggling with kidney failure, which has left him in urgent need of a kidney transplant.

In light of these circumstances, we, at G-Cor Automotive and RAS core have decided to come together to help fund Jared's kidney replacement surgery. This life-saving procedure comes with considerable costs, and we are reaching out to our partners, friends, and the wider community for support in any way possible.

Jared has always been a dedicated and hardworking individual, contributing so much to our industry. His kindness and commitment have left an indelible mark on all of us who have had the privilege of working alongside him. We hope that, with your support, we can help provide him with the chance to continue his important work and, more importantly, to regain his health and quality of life.

Any financial contribution to help with Jared's medical expenses would be deeply appreciated. Additionally, if you are able to share this letter within your networks or provide any other means of support, it would mean the world to Jared and to all of us at G-Cor Automotive and RAS core.

If you would like to make a donation or have any questions, please feel free to reach out directly to [Joe Messana] at [614.313.0981] or [joe.messana@g-cor.com]. We are extremely grateful for your consideration and any support you are able to provide.

Thank you for your time and generosity. Together, we can make a difference in Jared's life during this incredibly difficult time.

Warm regards,

Joe Messana (G-Cor Automotive)

Katrina Hall (RAS)

Jared’s Story: A Journey of Hope and Resilience

In 2014, life took an unexpected turn for me. After months of unexplained pain and discomfort, I went to see my family doctor. Blood tests showed elevated creatinine levels, a red flag for kidney issues. My doctor referred me to a nephrologist, and the journey into the unknown began.

The tests were extensive—ultrasounds, blood work, and more. It was revealed that I had one large kidney and one smaller kidney. Though I tried to stay positive and maintain an active lifestyle, things started to shift. I began noticing weight gain, something that felt out of my control. I assumed it was just a part of getting older, but a follow-up ultrasound brought a startling discovery: my left kidney had disappeared.

From there, my kidney function started to decline. The numbers told a story I wasn’t ready to hear. In 2020, I was diagnosed with Stage 3B kidney disease, and by 2024, I had progressed to Stage 4. My filtration rate had dropped to 18. I knew the clock was ticking, and once it reached 15, dialysis would become inevitable, and I would officially be at Stage 5.

The transition from living with the uncertainty of my condition to facing the reality of needing a transplant has been overwhelming. A recent meeting with my kidney nurse advocate revealed the next step in my journey: the process of joining the transplant list. But, as I learned from that conversation, this journey is not just about the medical challenges. There’s a whole new world of financial, emotional, and logistical hurdles I need to navigate.

The Costs of a Kidney Transplant

My family has been my rock through this and talking to the kidney advocate in what a kidney transplant entails. The facts were daunting. First, the medications required after a transplant to prevent organ rejection are lifelong and incredibly costly. These immunosuppressant drugs are just one part of the financial burden that comes with this life-changing procedure.

If a family member or friend were to donate, it could still take months—anywhere from 3 to 6 months—to match and secure the transplant. If I were to rely on the donor list, the wait could be 3 to 5 years. That’s a long time to be in a holding pattern, knowing that your health is deteriorating.

Beyond surgery and medication, the ongoing medical costs are significant. Even with insurance, the out-of-pocket expenses are overwhelming. There’s the travel to and from transplant centers, lodging for myself and caregivers, and the lost wages due to time off work. Not to mention pre-and post-transplant testing and follow-up care.

The Emotional and Financial Strain

The financial strain is not just numbers on paper. It's the weight of uncertainty that hangs over every decision—how do I balance my health with the financial reality of my situation? Will I be able to afford the medications and care I need, or will the costs become too much to bear?

But amid all of this, there’s a flicker of hope. I’m learning more about my condition every day, becoming educated about my options, and staying as positive as I can. But there’s no denying that it’s a shock. I’ve had to make drastic lifestyle changes, adjust my diet, and embrace doctor’s appointments as part of my new routine.

The story of my journey is one of resilience—facing a serious medical condition while carrying the weight of its financial and emotional toll. It’s not a journey I ever expected to take, but it’s one I walk with hope, determination, and the support of my loved ones.