Help Machen Through His Second Kidney Transplant

Our son, Machen, was born with kidney dysplasia, a condition that damaged his kidneys before he was even born. At age 13, his kidneys failed, and he was placed on the transplant list. After a year of waiting, Machen received his first kidney transplant on July 18, 2018, in Portland, Oregon.

Five years later—on July 18, 2023—we received devastating news: Machen’s transplanted kidney was beginning to fail due to rejection. His kidney function continued to decline, and in February 2024, he began dialysis.

Now, after months of working with his local nephrologist and the University of Utah transplant team, we’ve learned that Machen will be listed for a second kidney transplant in July 2025.

When the call comes, we’ll need to travel immediately to Salt Lake City, Utah, about five hours from our home. After the transplant, Machen will be hospitalized for around a week and then required to stay in the Salt Lake City area for several more weeks for follow-up appointments and monitoring.

We’re asking for help to cover the cost of lodging, meals, and other living expenses while we support Machen through this process. Your support will allow us to stay close to him, care for him, and give him the best possible chance at a healthy future.

We’re deeply grateful for any donation, large or small. Thank you for standing with Machen during this time.

With gratitude,

Hobart and Jamie Newton