Hello Friends,

Thank you so much for taking the time to read my GoFundMe and Venmo page.

A friend set this up for me in response to my recent medical struggles that began on September 21, 2021, when I was diagnosed with Stage 4 kidney cancer/renal failure and has progressed to now needing a kidney transplant. As I continue to navigate through this challenging time, I am reaching out to ask for support in covering my medical expenses and daily living costs. Any contribution, no matter how big or small, would be greatly appreciated and would help alleviate the financial burden as I focus on my health and recovery.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your generosity, kindness, and support during this difficult journey.

Fundraising Goal: $30,000 to cover essential costs related to my surgery and recovery.

This includes:

• Travel, lodging, housing, and food for the 30 days I will be staying at Gabriel House, the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida, during my post-surgery recovery for a minimum of a months stay.

• The cost of caregivers from Visiting Angels to assist me during my recovery. Their rate is $525 per 24 hours. For 30 days, this totals $15,750. This is a mandatory order from the Mayo Clinic to have the 24-hour care to receive the kidney.

Any contribution toward this goal, large or small, would make an incredible difference in my ability to focus on healing and recovery. Thank you so much for your support during this time.

Health Summary: In September 2021, I was diagnosed with Stage 4 Renal Failure (kidney cancer) and began hemodialysis three times a week. As of September 2024, I was able to travel to the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, FL, for evaluation and passed all testing required to move forward with a potential kidney transplant. More recently, I also had a partial toe amputated due to an infection.

I’ve been told that if I find a living donor, I could have a transplant within 3-6 months, compared to a 2-5 year wait for a deceased donor. I remain hopeful for this opportunity to heal and appreciate my community more than words can express.

A Little About Me:

I am a man guided by character, morality, and integrity. Throughout my life, I have strived to live with purpose, and my journey has been shaped by a range of experiences that reflect my commitment to personal growth, service, and leadership.

Through all of life’s challenges, I have remained committed to my values, seeking to make a positive impact in the lives of others. I continue to face my health struggles with determination, and I am actively seeking a kidney donor who can help give me a second chance at life.

Some Professional Achievements:

I proudly served in the US Navy Honor Guard in Washing DC, ending with an honorable discharge. I followed my time in the Navy by attending the Police Academy in Alexandria, VA. Other achievements include graduating from JFK University in Orinda, CA in Business and Sports Psychology, recognition for Excellence in Leadership as a leader in the non-profit sector and beginning my studies in Law School in 2019 at the Empire College of Law, California, which unfortunately was postponed due to Covid and my current health challenges. All my work and studies are linked to my commitment to the community and others I can serve.

Thank you in advance for your support!

Walter Shine