RICHARD
Hello, my name is Richard.
My kidney journey began approximately 10 years ago when, as a frequent blood donor, my donation was rejected due to a low hemoglobin count. My hemoglobin count did not meet Canadian Blood Services minimum requirements for a donation.
Short story, I only had one functioning kidney which was operating at approximately 40% and contained several kidney stones that required immediate intervention. This led to a referral to a Urologist (waiting another 5 months) where I was scheduled for surgery. Three operations later and over the course of several years my kidney function dropped to 13% and my new Nephrologist made the decision that it was time to consider dialysis. This despite the fact I followed the kidney friendly diet as outlined by my kidney team. In August 2025 I began peritoneal dialysis at home – 10 hours every night, 7 days a week!
I retired in 2021 and planned to spend time travelling with my wife and family. All of which have been put on hold due to my diagnosis. Each day has its emotional and physical ups and downs, and dialysis only cleanses the impurities in the body by approximately 15%. No treatment for kidney disease can do the job of a kidney as well as a kidney. Dialysis is considered a life sustaining intervention until a donor kidney can be located. For me, that would mean a second chance at really living in my retirement years and having more time to spend with my family. Thank you.
Etobicoke, ON
Age: 65
Blood Type: O
Currently in active transplant status looking for a donor.
Reason for kidney failure: Unknown - one kidney not functional for some time and kidney stones in remaining kidney gradually reduced function.
Current kidney function: on dialysis