Hey, everybody.

It's no secret, by now, that the transplanted kidney I received in 1999 is now in failure. It's actually pretty miraculous it's lasted this long. My kidney was from a deceased donor, and even familial donor kidneys usually average only 15 years. So it's been a really good run.

I've been back on dialysis since April of 2024, and have been missing work, on and off. For those who don't know, dialysis entails them cycling all of my blood through a machine to filter it, 4-5 hours a day, 3 days per week. This is of course in addition to any other medical appointments or transplant evaluations. I'm now back on medical leave, and waiting for my benefits to be approved. Even if they are, there will be a financial loss, as disability benefits don't cover full pay. Going back on dialysis has pretty much been my nightmare since I was 12 years old. And sadly, it lives up to those fears in a lot of ways. My energy is completely sapped and fatigue is off the charts, making it incredibly difficult to hold down a day job.

I'm starting this fundraiser to help me out from now until transplant. This could be anywhere from 6 months to a 5-6 years...but we're definitely hoping to be on the shorter side, as I have a number of people who say they are willing to get screened.

Regardless, it will be a long process during which I'm not sure if I'll be able to go back to working full time. So for this reason, I'm asking for your help.

Your donations will go to medical bills and living expenses while I am out of work. I'm deeply appreciative of anything you can give. And if you can't give, please share.

I'm fighting really hard to get by, right now, and while I don't like asking for help, now is not the time to be proud. I humbly accept any assistance that you all can give. Thank you so very much.

-Kyle