Ryan Needs a Lifesaving Kidney Transplant

Hi, my name is Ryan, and I never imagined I’d be here, sharing my story and asking for help — but life has a way of humbling us, sometimes all at once.

In 2023, my world turned upside down. I suffered a devastating accident that left me severely burned. The damage was so severe that I had to undergo a partial foot amputation, and I’m still living with the effects of that injury today. I thought that would be the hardest thing I’d ever go through. I was wrong.

While recovering, I became septic and had to undergo tests that included contrast dye. That dye — meant to help — ended up sending my kidneys into chronic kidney failure. Today, at just 35 years old, I’m in end-stage renal failure, going to dialysis several times a week, and waiting — hoping — for a lifesaving kidney transplant.

I’m writing this as a husband, a father, a man who worked hard every day of his life. I did everything I could to provide for my family. But once I got sick, everything fell apart. I lost my house. I lost my vehicle. I lost the life I had worked so hard to build — and, if I’m honest, I’ve lost pieces of myself too.

But I haven’t lost my will to fight.

I haven’t lost my love for my wife or my children.

And I haven’t lost hope.

I want to live. I want to watch my kids grow up. I want to grow old with my wife, hold her hand on a porch someday, and tell her we made it. I want my life back. And right now, I need help to get there.

If you’re reading this and you’re able to donate — no matter how small — please know you’re not just giving money. You’re giving hope. You’re helping me stay afloat during the hardest chapter of my life.

If you can’t donate, please share this. You never know who might see it. A friend of a friend could be the one who helps save my life.

And if you or someone you know might be open to the possibility of being my living kidney donor, please reach out for the number to start the process. I’m a universal recipient (AB+ blood type), so anyone can donate to me. It could be you who gives me that second chance at life.

I’ve always been proud. I never thought I’d have to ask for help like this. But sometimes life brings us to our knees, and we realize that there’s strength in reaching out. This isn’t just about me — it’s about being there for my kids, for my wife, for the life I still believe I can live.

Thank you for reading this. Thank you for caring. Thank you for helping me fight.

With all my heart,

Ryan