My son, Jory, has Alport syndrome, a rare genetic condition that causes progressive kidney disease. His kidneys are now in end-stage failure, meaning they can no longer function on their own. He urgently needs a kidney transplant to have the best chance at living a healthy life.

While he could wait for a kidney from a deceased donor, the waitlist is long—nearly 100,000 people are waiting, and suitable donors are rare. It could take 4 to 8 years before he receives a kidney. In the meantime, he will need dialysis, which comes with its own challenges and is not a long-term solution.

We recently learned that Jory has O blood type, which makes finding a match even more difficult. 

However, he could receive a transplant much sooner if someone we know is willing to donate a kidney. A living donor does not have to be biologically related to him—just someone with a compatible blood type.

The good news is that we are all born with two kidneys but only need one to live a healthy life. Many people have donated a kidney and gone on to lead completely normal, fulfilling lives.

I know this is a personal decision and not right for everyone, but I am asking for your help in spreading the word. If you or someone you know would consider becoming a donor for Jory, it would mean the world to us. Simply sharing this message could help us find the match he desperately needs.

To those who have already contacted the Living Donor Program at St. Joseph’s and are undergoing testing—thank you from the bottom of our hearts. You have no idea how much your willingness to help means to me.

We still need more volunteers. Please consider being tested or sharing this post with your friends and family. By doing so, you could help save Jory’s life.

For more information, please visit:
🔗 St. Joseph’s Living Kidney Donor Program

On behalf of Jory, thank you for any help you can provide. Your kindness and support mean everything to us.

With gratitude,
Charlene