My name is James Sturgis Jr. I've been on dialysis for 7 years awaiting a kidney transplant. Each time the phone rings hoping this will be the time. I've gone to the hospital three times for a possible match for a transplant only to not match. This time I have a definite live donor match lined up for August 28, 2025. Live donor transplant from a stranger are rare. After the transplant i will need to take medications to help my body not reject the kidney and to keep me healthy. The medicines will be expensive along with the transplant; an estimated cost of $85,000 which is why I started the Go Fund Me page to help with the cost of my medications and medical bills.

How did I get here? I have eczema. For decades, medicine that was supposed to be helping my eczema was wreaking havoc on my body including my kidneys.

I didn't know to what extent until January 5, 2018 when my sister had to call an ambulance and I was rushed to Northside Hospital. I was thinking I had gout but it was more intense. Shortly after my arrival and assessment, I was told I needed to be put on a Bi-Pap machine. I couldn't fully comprehend what was happening but my heart rate and pulse were dropping fast and I struggled to breath on my own. I was frightened and could see the same fear in my sisters eyes. I was tacken to CCU where I spent 4 days before being moved to ICU then stepdown care. It was at Northside Hospital in CCU that had dialysis for the first time but not the last time. I was diagnosed with Kidney Failure. The past 7 years have been a series of surgeries for vein strengthening and health issues due to dialysis and my need for a kidney transplant.

Next Thursday when I receive my new kidney, I'll be able to start a new chapter of my life with my family. I'm asking for your help to reach my goal of raising $85,000 to cover the medical bills and the medications I'll need to take after my transplant.

Thank you!

James Sturgis,Jr