My name is Lucas, and I am asking for your help to save my life. I am 24 years old and on currently on a kidney transplant in Florida.

I am the oldest of three children. I have a younger brother who is 23 and a younger sister who is 19.  I was born in Chicago and raised forty minutes outside the city.  My hobbies include spending time with friends, watching TV and movies, listening to music, reading, playing basketball and golf, and watching the Chicago Bears.  I also enjoy learning and getting to know people. Because of my declining health, I recently quit my job and moved back home with my parents. I am hoping to receive this transplant and continue on with my life. I hope to move out again and continue with a career in state politics or public service.  

I had a heart transplant as an infant which is the cause of my kidney disease, from years of taking immunosuppressive medication. I am at 17% kidney function.  I am hoping to get a kidney this fall, before I need to go on dialysis. A kidney transplant would change my life in so many ways for the better. I have had chronic kidney disease for most of my life and I have always felt tired as a result. The most difficult part of waiting is having to uproot my life and the uncertainty of my future.  It is difficult to be young and feel like my life is on hold and the uncertainty of it all. A new kidney would give me new energy and would allow me to continue to live my life and achieve my goals.

I am looking for a living donor. I am asking this of both friends and strangers, because I have no immediate family that are a match. My doctors have advised me that this is the best choice for me, because I am so young. They also recommend a younger donor, someone close to my age.  I am compatible with any Type A or Type O blood type. Even if you do not have the same blood type, you can donate as part of a paired exchange program. 

The first step is to contact my transplant center using the information in the box below. The entire process is strictly confidential and medical costs are covered by my insurance. Please review existing Living Donor Benefits to determine which apply to you. If you are not eligible for a tax credit, I can reimburse for donation related expenses as permissible by law. In addition, the American Transplant Foundation has financial assistance available to cover any lost wages while you donate for those who are eligible after donation.  

Thank you for considering saving my life.  

With deep gratitude,  

Lucas