Help Gene Fight Kidney Disease!

Hi, my name is Gene Rivera. I'm 31 years old, and I've been living with end-stage renal failure for the past seven years. During that time, I've had to receive dialysis treatments three times a week for four hours each time. The process takes a toll on every aspect of my life. Not only does it wear on me physically and emotionally, but it also prevents me from working full time.

We've sought out living donors, but so far we have had no luck finding a match, and because of difficulties with aquiring proper health insurance we have been unable to be approved for many transplant lists. Luckily, I have finally been placed on the INOVA and Georgetown Hospital transplant lists. Myself, my girlfirend Tess, and our famlies are all very gratefull to have this chance at  new life.

In order for us to be ready when we get that call from the hospital I will be moving to Maryland where it will be easier for me to get the insurance I need to be able to be approved for a transplant surgery.  Untill my transplant I will still need to be on dialysis. It could be a matter of months or years. 

It has always been hard for me to ask for help but I am determined to fight my Kidney Disease and come out on top.  I am asking my friends, family, and fellow community members to help me with my on going medical expenses, prescription costs, and general care. Any amount will help and will be be greatly appreciated.  Every donation will be used to aid in my ongoing recovery. 

Thank you so much for taking the time to read this message. I very much appreciate it. I will post updates along my road to a new kidney. On my facebook I will post links to my transplant lists and the Kidney Foundation for more information on becoming a living donor.