Family Milestones & Updates on Eric’s Donor Search

Title: Family Milestones & Updates on Eric’s Donor Search

Date: 8/30/2025

Amid Eric’s health challenges, our children, Max and Molly, have begun exciting new milestones—Max started college, and Molly is now a high school freshman. Eric was especially emotional when we dropped Max off at college. He was so thankful to be present for every step of this moment, from our first campus tour to the day of move-in. He had originally hoped to delay starting dialysis until after move-in day, worried that it might limit his strength to help with the lifting and labor, but he had to begin treatment earlier than planned. Eric cried more than once and hugged Max countless times before saying goodbye. What mattered most was that he was there. We were so proud of Max, and we felt fortunate to share that milestone with him.

As for Eric’s search for a matching donor, we remain patient and hopeful. We knew from the beginning that the journey would be full of uncertainties—especially around how long it might take. The encouraging news is that, including myself, nine people have already reached out to the Yale New Haven Transplant Center. While we don’t receive names or numbers, Eric called the center and learned that a few of them were able to move forward into the screening process. This gives us so much hope.

We have also had the privilege of connecting with former recipients who shared their stories and encouragement with us. They are truly angels in our eyes. One is a former principal and living kidney recipient who endured two transplants—the first failed, and she finally received a second living donor transplant last year, after waiting seven years. Her story reminds us of the reality: we cannot stop until we find Eric’s matching donor. Every share and every outreach matters—not only for Eric, but for others still waiting. If our efforts help even one other kidney patient, then raising awareness of living kidney donation will have been about more than just our family. And as a spouse, I live with the small voice of fear that things could change within hours, or even minutes. That voice is what drives me to keep doing everything I can, while there’s still time.

Please continue to share Eric’s story. If you know any influencers or members of the press who could help us spread the word, we would be so grateful for your connection. Thank you, from the bottom of our hearts, for continuing to walk this journey with us.