This has been very difficult to write. I am in need of a kidney transplant, and I need the help of strangers. I was diagnosed with kidney disease in 1984 as a senior at U.B. and received my first transplant in 1986 from a 20-year-old boy killed in a car accident. That transplant lasted 21 years-three times the national average - but I am now doing peritoneal dialysis four times a day at home while awaiting another kidney.

The urgent, nationwide need for organs is apparent as I've been on the list for a kidney for over four years, eight months and am still waiting. My family has all been tested however they match each other and not me. Many friends tested as possible matches, but to date none have been a blood match or suitable for surgery. To that end, I'm throwing it out to the universe to see if I can find a donor. I know there is a kidney out there-somewhere-for me.

I am a volunteer speaker and advocate for UNYTS and the National Kidney Foundation. I also teach religious education at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Swormville. I am a wife to my beloved husband, Jerry, and a mom to my beautiful son, Nicholas. But I am also the face of kidney disease, and that facet of my life is overwhelming. Prior to my rejection and subsequent medical problems, I was director of marketing for Skis Dynastar. I loved my job, loved skiing, and loved traveling to the mountains throughout the U.S., Canada, and Europe for work.

I want to continue to lead a full, meaningful life, not a withered existence where I am unable to help others. A kidney transplant would allow me to regain my health and experience the freedom of living each day to its fullest. I am an extremely compliant patient, as evidenced by the longevity of my first transplant, and the gift of a kidney from a living donor would be very precious and sacred to my entire family.

If you are interested in getting more information about being tested as a possible match for me or any of the other 400 western New Yorkers anxiously awaiting a kidney transplant please call Lisa Venuto at ECMC at 716-898-6265. There is absolutely no cost for any of the medical tests.

I am blood type O+ and may accept a kidney from anyone with blood type O+ or O-.