In January 2025, James received a life-changing diagnosis: sudden kidney failure caused by an undiagnosed genetic condition. Since then, he has been undergoing dialysis three times a week while seeking a live kidney donor to give him a second chance at life. A proud Far Rockaway native, James has spent nearly a decade serving the community as a dedicated NYC DOE paraprofessional, working closely with students with special needs. He is a loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend to many who just celebrated his 36th birthday in May. Despite the challenges, James remains hopeful and courageous as he awaits the life-saving gift of a kidney transplant.
Cleared for Hope: James' Transplant Journey Begins
James is currently awaiting confirmation on the transplant list with Northwell’s North Shore University Hospital—and there’s reason to celebrate! After months of determination and patience, he was recently medically cleared to move forward, marking an exciting step closer to receiving a life-saving kidney transplant.
Over the past few months, James has worked closely with a dedicated team of medical professionals, including nephrologists, vascular specialists (who created his dialysis access site), nurses, transplant coordinators, dietitians, social workers, and many other medical professionals. His medical team is confident in his candidacy, sharing that his strong overall health and age make him an ideal transplant recipient. With hope, faith, and continued support, James is moving forward one step at a time toward healing and a brighter future.
Living kidney donation is a generous and life-saving act where a healthy person donates one of their kidneys to someone whose kidneys no longer function properly. According to the National Kidney Registry (kidneyregistry.com), living donor transplants often result in better outcomes compared to those from deceased donors. They typically last longer, begin working immediately, and allow recipients to avoid years of dialysis.
Shorter wait times for recipients.
Better organ compatibility and longevity.
Immediate kidney function post-transplant.
The National Kidney Registry offers significant protections and support to donors through the Donor Shield program, which includes:
Lost wage reimbursement: Up to $2,000 per week (for up to 12 weeks).
Expense reimbursement: Up to $6,000 for travel and dependent care.
Kidney prioritization: If the donor ever needs a kidney in the future.
Voucher program: Donate now and provide a transplant voucher for a loved one to use later.
While any surgery carries risks, kidney donation is considered very safe. The mortality rate is low (about 2.2 in 10,000), and most donors go on to live healthy, full lives.
Life expectancy for donors is equal to or better than the general population.
Emotional impact is typically mild and less common than in the general public.
If a donor is not compatible with their intended recipient, they can still help through a paired exchange or kidney swap, where multiple donor-recipient pairs are matched in a chain to maximize successful transplants.
For more information or to explore becoming a living donor, visit the National Kidney Registry’s official website: www.kidneyregistry.com.
