For those of you who don't know me, I'm Jed Schwartz, I'm an EMT and the Deputy Chief for the Washington Fire & Rescue Department. Today I am reaching out to the community on behalf of the Department for support of our Fire Fighter/EMT, Maggie Atkins. As many have seen, Maggie urgently needs a kidney transplant. She has remained private about this issue for some time, however now she needs our help.

We are raising funds to help Maggie cover the expenses of going through a kidney transplant. The transplant process for the recipient is complex and can go on for many months. This includes the time leading up to and following the transplant where Maggie will be out of work for an undetermined amount of time. Throughout the process there will be many financial impacts that include frequent travel to appointments, medications, rehabilitation, and living expenses.

We want to give her the ability to feel supported through this process and ease the financial stress so she can focus on her recovery. While many this age are focused on building their lives and careers, Maggie has had to hit pause now, for a second time, to focus on her health. Your support will expedite getting Maggie back to a normal life.

Maggie is a 26-year-old woman who was first diagnosed with kidney disease at the age of 10. By 12 Maggie had overcome her disease and remained in remission for 14 years. The damage that was originally caused to her kidneys was not recoverable and Maggie’s kidneys continued to age at a faster rate than normal. Her kidney function has now diminished to the point of kidney failure and she now needs a new kidney to survive.

Outside of her kidneys Maggie has continued to live a full life, always striving to live like she has no limits. She went to college right out of high school receiving her criminal justice degree. While doing so she joined the department as a firefighter and quickly completed her EMT. She has worked on the department ever since and we have seen her persistence both on our department and in her life. Some may remember that Maggie went through serious brain surgery a few years ago and fought through that with tremendous strength. She immediately went back to school after her recovery finding a new light in helping others with health issues prepare and recover from their own major surgeries and illnesses. She completed her second degree and now is working in a physical therapy practice providing one on one care using her own life to relate to others. Last year it was with great pride that we nominated Maggie as our Rescue Lieutenant and she has served as a valuable leader for our department. Maggie’s leadership is one spearheaded by kindness. As a first responder she has given back to Washington and the surrounding communities. We know there are many that can attest to this.

Words from Maggie's colleagues:

Jed S, EMT/Deputy Chief WFD

In my experience working on EMS calls with Maggie, she has always displayed a calm compassionate demeanor even in the most critical circumstances. She is both an excellent leader and a team player who is always ready to jump into whatever role needed to enhance the opportunity for a positive outcome for our patients. She has an infectious smile and a bright positive personality, making her a pleasure to work with even under the most difficult circumstances. Please help Maggie as she fights for her future and her life.

Steve M, FF WFD

I rarely ask for much from my friends but please consider helping Maggie. Since I moved to New Hampshire this young lady has been part of my Firefighter family. Volunteers and career first responders are a tough and rare bunch.

She defines everything you could want in a young woman and a family just as dedicated to the public. If anyone has ever thought of helping another individual this is your time to help not just a young lady, her family, but with the extra gift of helping someone that has and will continue to serve her community.

Norris D. FF/Lt WFD

I have seen Maggie, grow up into a beautiful person inside and out. She is always there to help out on everything we do, putting everyone first. She has turned into a great asset for our team, medically and in the fire line. Please find it in your heart to help her now.

John C. LT WFD

Someone may wonder about who their life saving donation may go to… There is no one more deserving than Maggie. I have watched her grow since she was in kindergarten. Despite her health issues I am continually amazed at her cheerfulness, determination and independence. Today, in spite of everything, she works in the physical therapy field, serves Washington as an EMT/firefighter and volunteers her time at department fundraising. She arrives at medical calls armed with calm professionalism, and post call remains cheerful with awesome wit and a smile.

I know Maggie, she hasn’t yet reached her full potential; if you can, please help her over this obstacle. If you do help her out, your gift will go far beyond helping one young lady but pass on to the people she impacts daily.