Help Jeff Get a Kidney
I’m Jeff Pratt, and I’m in need of a living kidney donor. If you’re here, you’re already taking the first step toward learning how you might help save a life. Thank you.
Why I need a kidney
I have an autoimmune disease called IgA nephropathy, in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the kidneys. This causes a decline in kidney function over time, leading to eventual kidney failure. I was diagnosed with this disease in 2008, and I’ve been undergoing treatments to slow it down as much as possible. My kidney function has declined to the point where a transplant is the best path forward.
Common questions
What is living kidney donation?
A living donor kidney transplant involves a healthy person voluntarily donating one of their two kidneys. Living donor transplants have better outcomes and shorter wait times than deceased donor transplants. Transplantation is a better option for patients than dialysis.
How much does it cost?
My insurance will cover the costs of evaluation and surgery to any living donor.
Do I have to be a match?
If a donor is a match for me, then that’s great—but even if you are not a match, there is a paired exchange program, in which you can still donate to someone who is a match, and I can receive a kidney from another donor that will match me.
What is recovery like for a donor?
Recovery for a donor is typically a few days in the hospital, and then most donors are back to normal life within 4–6 weeks.
Can I get by on one kidney?
Research consistently shows that living donors have no reduced life expectancy or quality of life.
How to get started
If you’re interested in learning more or beginning the evaluation process, please reach out to me. There is no obligation—I’m grateful for anyone willing to learn more.
Or, you can begin the process at the University of Utah Transplant Center here: