Mike Richardson has been my friend since I was 15 years old. Mike was in my wedding and is part of a close group of childhood friends that grew up in northeast Ohio.

Over the past 20 years, Mike has faced a difficult battle with hypertensive chronic kidney disease. This summer, his hereditary kidney disease progressed to stage 5, and his kidneys are now functioning at only 5%. Because of this, Mike has had to take a leave of absence from work. He is currently active on the transplant list, and a stomach catheter has been placed so he can begin dialysis soon.

All proceeds from this fundraiser will help supplement Mike’s income while he is unable to work, as well as cover medical and travel expenses related to his treatment and transplant process. His declining health has worried me and made me sad, but I am also thankful for the time we have and hopeful for the future.

When I heard his kidney disease started to progress, I wanted to do everything I could to help. Mike is a blue-collar guy, and I’m reaching out to my white-collar professional network and beyond for help. Any support would mean the world to me, Mike, and his family. Thank you for considering a donation and for helping give Mike the best chance at a healthy future.