Kidney For Craig

Craig's Family is all behind him

Help Craig Get the Kidney He Needs

Craig is a devoted family man in urgent need of a kidney transplant. His loving family is rallying around him, and this site is dedicated to sharing his story and providing information on how you can become a donor or support him during this challenging time.

Craig's Background

Craig was born and raised in rural Pennsylvania as the oldest of five children. He was a good student and an active Boy Scout under his father's guidance. He became an Eagle Scout in early high school and ventured to Colorado State University at 17 to pursue his degree in Construction Management.

His career led him to positions at Safeway, Grand Union, Taco Bell Corporate, 24 Hour Fitness, Darden Restaurants, Unicorp, and SEQSR. During all these career moves, he married Faith in 1986, and they have two sons together. Craig and Faith have been married for 38 years.

Whats Happening

Throughout all those years, Craig was dedicated to working out every day before work. In 1995, doctors discovered a tumor on his kidney and adrenal gland. He had surgery to remove the adrenal gland and tumor, but his kidney was saved.

In 2022, a mass was accidentally found in his supposedly healthy kidney, which turned out to be a 5-inch cancerous tumor. He lost that kidney, and by 2024, he went into total kidney failure.

Now on daily dialysis, Craig struggles with fatigue and frustration. Despite this, he walks 2 miles daily, even in the Florida heat. He is determined to get through this, but we need help.

We are looking for a live kidney donor. Due to other health issues, no family member is able to donate at this time.

Understanding Life with Total Kidney Failure:

Living with total kidney failure is a profound and challenging experience that affects every aspect of daily life. For those like Craig, who are in search of a kidney donor, understanding this journey can offer insight into why finding a suitable donor is so crucial.

Total kidney failure means that the kidneys are no longer able to effectively filter waste and excess fluids from the blood. For Craig, this means regular dialysis treatments, which can be time-consuming and exhausting. Dialysis comes with its own set of challenges.

The emotional toll of living with total kidney failure is significant. There are frequent hospital visits, a constant awareness of one’s health status, and the anxiety of waiting for a suitable donor. The physical challenges include managing symptoms such as fatigue, swelling, and the side effects of medications. This constant battle with health can affect mental well-being, leading to feelings of frustration and isolation.

Learn More Here about what is dialysis here

How can you help

How do I become a living donor?

The first step is an initial screening typically followed by a blood test to see if you are compatible.

What if I don't match

Sometimes a transplant candidate has someone who wants to donate a kidney or liver to them, but tests reveal that the organ would not be a good medical match. Not to worry, you can still help via "Paired Donation"

What is a Paired Donation

Kidney paired donation, or KPD, also called kidney exchange, gives Craig another option. In KPD, living donor kidneys are swapped so each recipient receives a compatible transplant from an other donor. Basically they match donors who are compatible.

Learn about Paired Donation

what happens if I am a match?

Donating a kidney is a significant decision and can have a meaningful impact on both the donor and the recipient. Here’s what the process is like and what life is typically like after you donate a kidney, explained in a way that's easy to understand:

What is Surgery Process

Pre-Surgery Preparation

Before you go in

Final Health Check
Comprehensive Exam: A final health assessment ensures you're still fit to donate.
Pre-Operative Instructions: You’ll receive instructions on what to eat and drink before surgery.

Pre-Surgery Tests

Blood and Urine Tests: Additional tests may be done to confirm your health status.
Consent Forms: You'll sign consent forms acknowledging the risks and benefits of the surgery.

Hospital Admission

Admission: You'll be admitted to the hospital a day before or on the morning of the surgery.

2. Surgery

How invasive

The most common procedure involves making small incisions and using a camera to remove the kidney, resulting in shorter recovery time and less pain.
Anesthesia
General Anesthesia: You'll be put to sleep during the procedure, which typically lasts 2 to 4 hours.

Removal of Kidney

Kidney Extraction: The surgeon removes one kidney, leaving the other to function normally.

3. Post-Surgery Recovery

Hospital Stay
Duration: Most donors stay in the hospital for 2 to 4 days.
Pain Management: You'll receive pain medication to manage discomfort.
Monitoring: Doctors will monitor your recovery and kidney function.

Recovery Process

Hospital Stay: After donating a kidney, you'll stay in the hospital for a few days. Most people stay 2 to 4 days, but it can vary.
At-Home Recovery: Recovery Time: Full recovery usually takes 4 to 6 weeks.
Activity Restrictions: Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities for several weeks.
Follow-Up Appointments: Regular check-ups are necessary to monitor your health.
Follow-Up Visits: You’ll have regular check-ups to make sure everything is healing well and your remaining kidney is working properly.

Long-Term Health

Living with One Kidney: Your remaining kidney will grow a bit larger and work harder to do the job of two kidneys. Most people live a completely normal life with one kidney.
Regular Check-Ups: You’ll need to have regular health check-ups to monitor your kidney function, but these usually just become part of your normal healthcare routine.
No Major Limitations: Most donors don’t experience major health issues as a result of donating a kidney, but it’s important to maintain a healthy lifestyle to protect your remaining kidney.

Potential Risks

Surgical Risks: As with any surgery, there are risks like infection or complications, but serious problems are rare.
Long-Term Health: Some studies suggest a slightly increased risk of high blood pressure or kidney issues later in life, but overall, most donors remain healthy.
Time Off Work: Some donors may need financial help for lost wages during recovery, but many organizations offer assistance programs.

Long Term Effects and Lifestyle

1. Regular Check-Ups

Routine Health Monitoring: While you won’t need specific long-term medication, you will have regular follow-up appointments to monitor your health and kidney function. It’s essential to ensure that your remaining kidney is working well.
Annual Health Check: It is often recommended to have an annual check-up to monitor blood pressure, kidney function, and overall health.

2. Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle

Hydration: Drink plenty of water to help your kidney function optimally.
Balanced Diet: Eat a healthy diet to maintain overall health and protect your kidney.
Exercise: Regular physical activity is encouraged to keep your body healthy.

Costs - All Covered by Craig's Insurance

1. Medical Expenses

Evaluation and Testing: All medical tests and evaluations required to determine if you are a suitable donor are usually covered by the recipient’s insurance.
Surgery: The actual surgical procedure to remove the kidney is also covered by the recipient's insurance.
Hospital Stay: Hospitalization costs related to the surgery are paid for by the recipient's insurance.
Post-Surgery Care: Follow-up appointments and necessary medical care directly related to the donation are typically covered as well.

2. Additional Medical Costs

Medications: Any medications required immediately after surgery, such as pain relief or antibiotics, are usually included.
Emergency Situations: If complications arise from the surgery, those medical expenses are typically covered by the recipient's insurance.

Thank you so much for taking the time to learn more

Your interest and support mean the world to us during this challenging time.

Craig has always been a pillar of strength and kindness, and your willingness to explore the possibility of donating a kidney is a testament to the generosity and compassion that make our community so special. By considering kidney donation, you are offering Craig not just a second chance at life but also hope for a healthier future. We deeply appreciate your efforts in spreading awareness and considering this life-changing gift.

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