Tahiti 2024
LARA NEEDS a
KIDNEY...
"The decision to donate a kidney is not just an act of generosity; it’s a lifesaving act that provides hope for someone in need.
Every year, thousands of people wait anxiously for a lifesaving transplant, their futures uncertain as they cling to the possibility of finding a match. But amid the statistics and the struggles, there are everyday heroes—people who step forward to share the gift of life, often with a stranger."
from AMA: What doctors wish patients knew about becoming a living kidney donor Apr 2025
You could save my life—or help me find the person who can
Living kidney donation is more than generosity. It’s a lifesaving act that gives someone a future.
Thanks so much for visiting my site. My name is Lara. I’m living with a rare kidney disease called FSGS (Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis) and I only have approximately 15 % total kidney function left. I was born with a condition that caused my FSGS and I urgently need a living kidney transplant
Without one, I’ll need to eventually go on dialysis. While dialysis keeps people alive, it comes with serious risks and a much shorter life expectancy. Many people never survive long enough to receive a transplant.
I’ve been incredibly lucky. I was accepted by UCLA for a transplant and have had several friends and family step forward to be tested. Sadly, none have been approved. I’m also on the deceased-donor list, but the wait in Southern California where I live can be up to 10 years, and many people don’t make it that long.
That’s why I’m asking for help.
My rescue Cat family
volunteering in Haiti 2016
Yes, you can live a healthy life with one kidney after donation. The human body is remarkably adaptable. After donation, your remaining kidney will increase in size and function to compensate for the loss of the donated kidney and take over the job of filtering your blood.
Why Living Donation Matters
A kidney transplant wouldn’t just save my life. It would give me my life back.
It would restore my energy, strengthen my immune system, and allow me to travel, volunteer, and spend meaningful time with the people I love, things that are no longer possible as my body fills with toxins
What You Should Know
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Applying is non-committal and they won't tell
me you've applied -
You don't have to live in California to donate
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All testing and surgery are fully covered by my insurance
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All travel and housing, if needed, will be covered
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UCLA Doctors ensure donors are healthy and safe at every step
You don’t have to decide anything now. Just see if you might be a match.
Take the First Step - Apply here:
Check to see if you could be a living kidney donor:
https://www.uclakidneydonor.org/
You’ll need: Lara Day | DOB: 6/27/1968
You don’t have to donate to help
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Share this page
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Tag 3 friends
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Talk to someone who might be open
Questions?
Email me here
Call UCLA living kidney donor program 866-672-5333
Thank you for being here.
Thank you for even considering this.
Your curiosity could save a life. 💛
-Lara
"The most important thing to keep in mind is you shouldn’t rule yourself out from being a donor if it’s something you’re interested in,” said Dr. George.
“Don’t hesitate to submit an application to your transplant center because they’re going to do all the workup that’s necessary to make sure that you’re healthy and that you are not going to have any issues after you donate a kidney. Let us do all of the workup to make sure that everything looks good.” .
from AMA: What doctors wish patients knew about becoming a living kidney donor Apr 2025
"A living donor kidney can last between 15 and 20 years, while a deceased donor kidney lasts about eight to 12 years."
“Kidney donation saves lives. Remaining on dialysis leads to cardiovascular health complications,” said Dr. George.
“Kidney donation is essential in helping those with kidney disease avoid developing those health complications, allowing them to live longer and healthier lives.”
from AMA: What doctors wish patients knew about becoming a living kidney donor Apr 2025
big thanks to the talented @willshivers for creating this video to help spread the word.
