I was born 3 months premature, and in order to keep my lungs going the medicine they used back in 1986 in the NICU damaged my already-itty-bitty kidneys, which  just - gave up when I was 18. I had my first transplant at 18/19, and had 15 lovely years with Rena Lou, as we named her, until she decided that she needed to transition into a more managerial role. Unfortunately she decided to do so right in the middle of the pandemic, October 2020, and right in the middle of a cross-country move from Minnesota to North Carolina. Now, I've been on dialysis for almost 1.5 years, and on the deceased donor list for 6 "official" months. My function is rapidly decreasing, estimated about 5-7% right now, and I'm feeling the effects of the increased toxins in my blood.

Kidney issues have consumed my entire life, since I was born with this, but in the time between kidney issues I've found time to become a lawyer working on insurance-related legislative and regulatory issues. I have 3 rescued dogs, one of whom just turned 17, and am happily married. When I'm not working I like watching the Winter Olympics (go snowboarding!) and playing video games (we FINALLY got a PS5!), and when I'm healthy I like riding my bike, walking around our neighborhood, and just hanging out with my wife.

I am seeking a living donor to help save my life. I am asking this of both friends and strangers, because I have no immediate family available to donate. Living donor transplants generally have better outcomes and can be arranged at a time convenient for both parties. No waiting and wondering while my body continues to weaken.

Thank you for considering saving my life.

Jessica