A kidney could give Joseph the chance to move forward.

For nearly thirty years, I have lived with a kidney disease called FSGS. My mother had the same disease, so I have known since I was a young adult that I might eventually face this moment. I tried not to let that possibility control how I lived. I pursued my education, created a home, and built a meaningful life and career.

I grew up on Long Island and now live in Plantsville, Connecticut. For almost two decades, I have worked as a school psychologist. Helping young people and their families find clarity and possibility has been one of the most meaningful parts of my life. I have also been fortunate to mentor more than a dozen graduate students entering the profession.

As my kidney function has declined, I have less energy and stamina than I once did. I need more sleep and recovery time, and physical activities take more out of me. The uncertainty has also made it difficult to plan ahead and has caused me to put new relationships and future possibilities on hold.