Help Matt Schmidt Fight Kidney Disease

Matt Schmidt is organizing this fundraiser.

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Help Me Fight Kidney Disease with Stem Cell Treatment

Hi, my name is Matt Schmidt, and I’m reaching out for your support.

I’ve faced more health challenges than most people could imagine. I was born with a congenital heart defect, which doctors told my parents would likely shorten my life. For years, I lived with the reality of early demise, but somehow I survived far longer than anyone expected.

However, last year, things took a turn for the worse. At the end of 2024, I got very sick with a virus that doctors were unable to discern. It nearly took my life. On January 5, 2025, I had a stroke that changed everything. My heart failure worsened. That virus seemed to be the tipping point, and my kidneys began to fail soon after. Doctors believe the combination of my heart condition, stroke, and the virus played a major role in my kidney failure, along with the massive quantities of prescriptions used to stabilize my heart.

Right now, I’m fighting for my life. The medical community has recommended stem cell therapy as my best hope to regenerate damaged kidney tissue and give me the chance to regain my health. Unfortunately, the cost of this treatment is not covered by insurance as it is considered experimental in the USA, and the financial burden is more than I can manage on my own.

Special thanks will be given in updates to anyone who sponsors $50 or more. Businesses are welcome to be included, your support helps me reach each treatment milestone.

Why I Need Your Help

The total cost of the stem cell treatment, along with travel and followup care, is $15,000. Here’s how the funds will be used:

Stem Cell Treatment: The treatment and all necessary medical consultations with specialists. You are welcome to research the cost of this invaluable service to confirm cost. Most often the minimum is currently at or above my ask, alone.

Travel: I need to travel to a clinic that offers stem cell therapy, as it’s not available locally.

Aftercare & Recovery: The care I will need after the procedure, including followup visits, medications, and specialized care.

Living Expenses: Due to the treatment, I may need to take time off from work, which will affect my ability to cover basic living expenses.

How Your Donation Will Help

I’m asking for your help because stem cell therapy is my best chance at survival. If I don’t receive this treatment, my kidneys will continue to fail, and the toll on my heart will only worsen. Apparently the kidneys and heart are directly connected in the way they manage my health. This treatment gives me hope that I can regain my strength, and it’s my last opportunity to avoid dialysis.

Every donation of any amount will make a difference. Your generosity will help me take the first step toward recovery, and if you can’t donate, I would be incredibly grateful if you could share my story with others. The more people who know about my situation, the better chance I have of raising the funds I need.

Updates & Transparency

I promise to keep everyone updated on my progress. I’ll share the latest news about the treatment, my recovery, and how your support is making a real difference. I want you to know exactly how your donation is helping me rebuild my life.

Why Your Support Means So Much

Living with heart failure and kidney disease has been incredibly challenging. It’s hard to keep going when it feels like everything is stacked against you. But I’ve lived far longer than doctors ever predicted, and I’m not ready to give up now. This treatment offers me a chance at a new life. One where I can live without constant health fears, enjoy time with loved ones, and feel like myself again.

Your kindness and support mean the world to me. I’m deeply grateful for anyone who is able to contribute or share my campaign. Together, we can make this lifesaving treatment possible.