Andy Needs a Kidney

Join the Fight

Help Andy Find a Living Kidney Donor

A living kidney donor could give Andy the lifesaving transplant he needs and the chance to create many more memories with the people he loves.

Andy has spent his life helping others succeed.

As a business leader, father, author, and songwriter, he has dedicated himself to building careers, strengthening communities and inspiring the people around him. He has always been the person others could count on.

Today, Andy is facing the greatest challenge of his life.

After being diagnosed with kidney failure, he has endured surgeries, dialysis treatments and a year-long journey filled with uncertainty and determination. He is now officially approved for the kidney transplant waiting list at Henry Ford Hospital, but a living kidney donor could dramatically improve his chances of receiving the lifesaving transplant he needs.

By learning Andy’s story, sharing this website, and spreading awareness about living donation, you can help bring him one step closer to a second chance at life.

More Than a Patient

Andy is a father, friend, mentor, author, songwriter and business leader. He has spent decades helping others build careers, create opportunities and strengthen communities.

Today, he is fighting for the opportunity to continue making memories with his family, pursuing the passions he loves, and sharing more years with the people who matter most.

Behind every transplant story is a person — not just a diagnosis.

Kidney Donation: Did You Know?

  • You can live a healthy, active life with just one kidney.
  • Most living kidney donations are performed using minimally invasive surgery, resulting in smaller incisions and a shorter recovery period.
  • Donors undergo a comprehensive medical evaluation to ensure donation is safe for their long-term health.
  • Medical expenses related to the donor evaluation and transplant procedure are typically covered by the recipient’s insurance.
90,000+ PEOPLE
Are Currently Waiting for a Kidney Transplant in the United States
85% OF PATIENTS
On the National Transplant Waiting List are Waiting for a Kidney
EVERY 8 MINUTES
Another Person is Added to the Transplant Waiting List
A LIVING DONOR
Can Help Someone Skip Years of Waiting and Receive a Life-Changing Transplant Sooner

A Message

From Andy

Over a year ago, my life changed in ways I never anticipated. What followed was a journey filled with multiple surgeries, countless medical appointments and a variety of dialysis types and routines that became my new normal. It was not easy. There were hard days. But I kept going.

And today, I am proud — and humbled — to share that I have officially qualified to be placed on the kidney transplant list at Henry Ford Hospital.

This is a milestone I have worked incredibly hard to reach, and I could not have gotten here without the love, support and encouragement of so many of you. 

From the bottom of my heart — thank you.

But reaching the list is only part of the journey. Now comes the part that is perhaps the most humbling thing I have ever had to do in my life.

I am someone who has always believed in working hard, standing on my own two feet and never asking anyone for anything. And yet, here I am — asking for something extraordinary. Something that only another human being can give.

I am looking for a living kidney donor.

I never imagined I would be the one writing these words. But life has a way of teaching us that strength isn’t just about what you can carry alone — it’s about having the courage to let others carry some of it with you.

No pressure. No obligation. Just awareness. Sometimes the right person just needs to know the door is open.

I am near the finish line. With a little grace — and perhaps a generous soul — I will cross it. 🙏

If you, or anyone you know, might be open to learning more about living kidney donation, I would be forever grateful if you shared this link.

How You Can Help

One Person Can Change Andy's Life

You don’t need to be a match to make a difference. There are several ways you can help Andy on his journey toward a lifesaving kidney transplant.

Learn About Living Donation

Find answers to common questions and learn what becoming a living kidney donor involves.

Share Andy’s Story

The right donor may be someone in your network. Sharing this website helps spread awareness.

Consider Being Evaluated

If you’re interested in learning whether you could be a donor, the Henry Ford transplant team can guide you through a confidential evaluation process. Being screened at Henry Ford is not a commitment to donate. The screening process is designed to provide information and determine eligibility, and potential donors will have multiple opportunities throughout the process to decide whether they would like to continue.

Offer Encouragement

Every message, conversation and act of support helps Andy and his family continue moving forward with hope.

Have Questions?

FAQs

Can I live a normal life with one kidney?

Yes. Most kidney donors go on to live healthy, active lives with one kidney.

Does it cost anything to be a donor?

Medical expenses related to the donor evaluation and transplant surgery are typically covered by the recipient's insurance.

Is there a $10,000 tax credit available for Michigan live organ donors?

Yes, in 2024 Michigan passed legislation that helps living kidney/organ donors cover some donation-related costs.  House Bill 4361 provides a one-time state income tax credit of up to $10,000 for qualifying nonmedical expenses tied to living organ donation, such as childcare, transportation, lodging, and lost wages.

How do I find out if I'm eligible?

The first step is completing a confidential screening through Henry Ford's Living Donor Program.

Do I have to be related to Andy?

No. Living donors can be family members, friends, coworkers or even compassionate strangers.

What if I'm not a match?

You may still be able to help through paired kidney exchange programs.

Be Someone's Hero

Could You be the Person Andy Has Been Waiting For?

Right now, Andy is waiting for a lifesaving kidney transplant.

If you’ve ever wondered whether you could make a profound difference in someone’s life, this may be your opportunity.

Learning about living donation takes only a few minutes. Becoming a donor could provide Andy with years of life, health and precious time with those he loves.

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