My name is Tajze Johnson, and I need a kidney. I was diagnosed with kidney disease at birth. I grew up in Rochester, NY, unaware that I had a serious illness. I played with other kids, participated in sports and did what normal kids did. I did not understand why I was going to doctor visits.

During my young adult years, I went to school, worked and pushed myself to reach my goals. I began to experience the symptoms of my kidney disease, including protein in my urine, high blood pressure and fatigue. I did not let that get in my way

​In December 2019, I was diagnosed with end-stage renal disease. That meant that it was only a matter of time before I needed to start dialysis or get a transplant. I was able to go about six months before I started dialysis. That time was crazy because I was actively driving 5 hours one way to occupational therapy assistant school in Blacksburg, VA, every other weekend. Not to mention, the COVID-19 pandemic was in full swing. I didn't let dialysis stop my progress, and I graduated from that program in May 2021 and enrolled in a Doctor of Occupational Therapy program at Methodist University, where I am in my second year. 

Receiving a kidney would be life-changing. Managing school, medical appointments, working, and hooking up to a machine for almost 10 hours a night to live has been difficult. I know that my faith in God and the support of my family and friends are getting me through.

While I am on the transplant list at three transplant centers, it can take years to receive an organ. I am also working to receive a living donor kidney. If you or someone you know may be interested in getting an evaluation, please visit my website.

In addition, transplants are costly, and the medications that I will need to be on for the rest of my life are also expensive.

I really appreciate your support.

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