In 2009, I was diagnosed with Adult Polycystic Kidney Disease (APKD). It is one of the leading causes of kidney failure that is passed down genetically as it was in my case from my late grandfather to my mother and then to me. APKD causes cysts to grow and smother the kidneys, ultimately leading to kidney failure.

I am currently 50 years old and in Stage 5 kidney failure. Thanks to the outpouring of positive responses to my video on social media, I have successfully matched with a willing donor, someone I only recently met. His name is Thomas Shepherd.

What is amazing about this story is that Thomas saw my video appeal on Twitter, and he knew immediately that this was something he wanted to do. He and his fiancé are supposed to get married in October, but he has decided to be a donor prior to his wedding in order to help me. Here we are now, bonded by this process and on the precipice of major surgery. Thomas doesn’t like it when I call him a “hero,” but to me that’s what he is. What other word is there to describe someone who volunteers to help a total stranger by giving the gift of life?

Thomas and I are heading into kidney transplant surgery on May 18, 2020. Post-surgery hospitalization is expected to last approximately one week, but we both must remain close to the hospital in case of emergency. The out-of-pocket medical and travel expenses for post-operative care are greater than we imagined—not to mention the fact that we (including my wife and Thomas’ fiancé) will be out of work for longer than normal vacation time allows.

We are asking for your help and support. Not only do we need your good thoughts and prayers for a successful procedure, but we can use any financial assistance that you might be willing to give at this time.

Thomas and I both try every day to impact those around us in a positive way. We promise to do our best, with your help, to get back on our feet quickly and continue serving our communities.

From the bottom of my heart--Thank You!