Every Connection Widens the Circle.
Chris has never stopped showing up for others. Now, for the first time, he needs us to show up for him. Chris has been diagnosed with Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) and is searching for a living kidney donor. If you can help, or know someone who might--this is the place to start.
Support Chris' Path
Be the difference Chris needs. Learn how to become a living donor. Support Chris and follow Chris' journey, join our email list.
Chris' Story
Chris has spent his life quietly serving others--as a volunteer, social worker, and now as Director of a Boston based shelter for individuals living with mental health challenges. His faith and his calling have always pointed in the same direction: toward those who need help most. Now it's his turn to need help. Chris has been diagnosed with polycystic kidney disease and is searching for a living kidney donor. He has led a life of giving to others and hopes to continue on this path -- with the gift of life in the form of a kidney donation.
Understanding Chris' Condition
Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) is a genetic condition where clusters of cysts develop primarily within the kidneys, causing them to enlarge and lose function over time. While the progression varies, Chris has reached a stage where his kidney health requires a proactive solution. A living kidney donor offers the most effective path forward, typically resulting in better immediate function and longer-term success than other options, allowing Chris to return to a full and healthy life.
What is PKD?
A genetic disorder causing fluid-filled cysts to grow in the kidneys.
600,000 People
The number of Americans currently living with PKD today.
Living Donation
Transplants from living donors last longer and function better immediately.
Quality of Life
Transplant recipients often enjoy a lifespan nearly equal to their peers.
A Word from Chris' Parents
We are deeply proud of the man our son has become and we are working tirelessly in assisting him on his journey of wellness, as any parents would do. The need for kidneys far exceeds the supply. Even a willing donor may not be a match. And those seeking a living donor are largely left to their own devices. That is why we must widen the circle to reach as many people as possible. You would be helping to give the precious gift of life by spreading the word. Your credibility would be a special force multiplier to our efforts. In forwarding the message, be especially attentive to groups or publications as they contain a greater reach than individuals. Examples might include social clubs, affinity groups, public service organizations, book groups, church or alumni newsletters, and of course, these days via Social media.
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Similarly if you are comfortable doing so, you may wish to share the information that organ donation is regarded as an unselfish and praiseworthy act by virtually all religions and altruistic organizations. See DonateLife.net , and Forum.EffectiveAltruism.org. We have a great deal of information on this subject and can share it with you if you like. Last but not least, consider being a donor yourself.
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Thank you for visiting our website, reading Chris' story and, especially for your time. We are grateful. The best way to connect with us is through the Contact page and by emailing us at (getkidneyforchris) (at) (gmail.com). Again, we appreciate your time.
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Frank and Jane
How to Help
There are more ways to help than you may think
A donor doesn’t need to be a blood type match
Someone anywhere in the U.S. can donate through the National Kidney Registry’s paired exchange program. Their directed gift can help Chris receive the transplant he needs.
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Share his story
Help Chris reach more people by sharing his story online. Copy and share the url of this website on social channels. If you'd like help, we can send you a pre-written message, or a shareable image to post with your own words. Send us a request in the Contact Section.
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Spread the word in your community
Talk with your faith community, workplace, or neighborhood about living kidney donation. Contact us if you need support materials to make it easy to pass along.
The donation process
What living kidney donation actually involves
Step-by-step overview: initial inquiry → evaluation → matching → surgery → recovery.Â
Chris is listed at the transplant center with his hospital MassGeneral in Boston. You can begin the process by contacting MassGeneral. MassGeneral has a wealth of information including an educational video series listed here as well as their comprehensive guide located via the link to the right. He is also registered with the MassGeneral affiliated National Kidney Registry as he awaits a donor.
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Watch MassGeneral Hospitals' Exceptional Explainer Videos
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Other resources to learn more about kidney donations:Â
>The National Kidney Foundation
>The American Transplant Foundation
>Donate Life America (and its state affiliates)
>Alliance for Paired Kidney Donation
>Waitlistzero
Support Chris's Path
Be the difference Chris needs. Learn how to become a living donor.
The Person Behind the Journey
"I have known Chris for over a decade in his capacity as a graduate student, a social worker, and as a participant in a discernment group with other young adults. Chris is a hardworking thoughtful person and I have no doubt that a "new" kidney will prolong Chris' years of service and his ability to participate in life giving activities. I am happy to support Chris through this process."
— Sr. Barbara Q.
"Our family shares a lifetime of memories with Chris, having raised our daughter Katie alongside him through years of laughter and friendship. We deeply respect his commitment to helping the vulnerable adults to navigate housing and emotional challenges. To ensure that his vital work continue, Chris will need a lifesaving kidney transplant. We hold Chris, and all those involved in the donation journey, in our daily prayers as we hope for a successful match."
— Deb S, long-time family friend
"I am a social worker who previously worked with Chris in Boston. We've remained friendly ever since. I am in awe of Chris' commitment to social justice and the welfare of the less fortunate. I look forward to a lifetime of friendship and hope that he is able to surmount this significant challenge."
— Paul Y, friend and colleague