October 1, 2023
Dear Friends,
My name is Scott, I am 56 years old and I live in Cincinnati, Ohio. I found out when I was 30 years old that I have one kidney. Normally you can live a healthy long life with one kidney, but I also have FSGS (Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis), a type of rare kidney disease that affects the kidney’s filtering system, resulting in a high level of protein and serious scarring. In recent years, my kidney function has been steadily declining resulting in stage IV, chronic kidney disease.
I have always been very active, but now I’m lacking energy and am always tired. My family is very understanding when I need a “time out” to rest. I would love to be healthy again! I want to enjoy my family and have more time with my wife, Tina, my son, AJ, my daughter, Sara, and her husband Layton, and to enjoy the blessing of having grandchildren someday. I’m looking forward to the day that I’m not tired, or unwell, and can live my life to the fullest.
It has been a long journey since November 2022. I have completed the extensive testing through Christ Hospital to receive a kidney transplant and in March, I was placed on the United Network for Organ Sharing, UNOS. On July 31, 2023, I had a catheter placed in my abdomen to begin dialysis. After needing a second surgery on August 24, 2023 we were able to continue the training for dialysis. As of two weeks ago, I began peritoneal dialysis at home. Every night I'm on the cycler for 8 hours, while I sleep.
A living donation will give me freedom from dialysis and will allow me to enjoy a longer life with my family and friends. A living donation is often described as “The Gift of Life.” For the donor, it is a precious gift to give, and one that requires careful consideration.
Any medical costs related to the living donor are covered by my insurance and the information you share will be kept confidential with the transplant team. If you would consider being my living donor, please contact Jacqueline Haney, the Donor Transplant Coordinator, at 513-585-1440.
Thanks for reading my journal.
May grace and blessings be with you.
Scott and Tina Cassiere