Liam’s Story

Hello,

Some of you know me well. Others we haven’t been in touch in many years. And some of you may be reading this because someone shared it with you.

I'm reaching out to ask for help. Asking doesn't come easily for me, but this is a moment where I truly need it.

I’m looking for a living kidney donor.

This may come as a surprise, especially if you've seen me recently and thought I looked healthy and active. But my kidneys have been declining and I'm now in Stage 5 Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD).

I have polycystic kidney disease (PKD), an inherited genetic condition I was diagnosed with in my twenties. For many years, I managed it quietly and privately, doing everything possible to extend my kidney function. Unfortunately, there is no cure for PKD and my kidneys are now extremely enlarged and functioning at less than 14%.

A kidney transplant from a living donor would save my life.

A few months ago, I hit a low point when exercising and other activities I love became increasingly difficult. Even walking up stairs or kicking a soccer ball around with my son felt daunting. With some aggressive medication adjustments, I’ve thankfully been able to bring some activity back into my life. While that has provided relief, it’s temporary. The disease continues to progress toward complete kidney failure.

As a 47-year-old husband and dad to a 12-year-old son, being present for him as he grows up matters more to me than anything. I’ve built a full, active life, and I’m very much in the middle of it. A transplant isn’t about extending something that’s winding down, it’s about protecting a life that’s still being lived.

My wife, Eva, and two close friends are currently being evaluated as potential donors; however, finding a good match who is also suitable for donating one of their kidneys is not easy. Because timing matters, my transplant team has strongly encouraged me to broaden my search for a living donor. 

Living kidney donation is a well-established medical procedure. Donors are thoroughly screened, supported through the process, and only approved if donation is safe for them in both the short and long term. Living kidney donors go on to live full, healthy lives with no reduction in life expectancy. Choosing to explore donation doesn’t commit anyone to anything, it simply opens a conversation and provides information.

Without a living donor transplant, dialysis would be the next step. Dialysis keeps people alive. But it is not equivalent to a transplant. Starting dialysis would mean major limits on daily life and, critically, much worse long-term health outcomes.

A living donor transplant before dialysis offers significantly better survival and quality of life. Once dialysis begins, that opportunity is gone. That is why finding a living donor now matters so much.

There are many ways to help, and none of them come with obligation. You might choose to learn more about living donation, share this with someone else, consider starting the screening process yourself, or simply keep me in mind and stay connected. Sometimes, one person taking even a small step can change everything.

More information and resources:

I’m deeply grateful for your time, your consideration, and for any way you choose to engage with this. I don’t take this ask lightly.

Liam

Liam: liam.kerney@gmail.com | 604.764.8543

Eva: eluptakova@gmail.com | 604.729.9072