Full Breakdown
Urgent Search for Kidney Donor for New Jersey Teen
2/21/2026, 9:42:16 PM
Critical Health Situation for Thaddeus
A 14-year-old boy from Morris County, New Jersey, named Thaddeus is in urgent need of a kidney transplant due to the rapid decline of his health. Recent blood tests revealed that his only remaining kidney is failing, and doctors have indicated that he requires a transplant within the next month to avoid the need for dialysis, which can severely impact his quality of life. Thaddeus has faced health challenges since birth but had managed to maintain a relatively stable condition until this recent downturn.
Community Support and Outreach Efforts
Thaddeus's family, including his parents Christi and Carlos, have launched a campaign to find a living kidney donor, as they have been unable to find a match among family members, including his mother, who shares the same O blood type. The family has received overwhelming support from their local community, with neighbors actively helping to raise awareness. A video posted by neighbor Lisa Molinari on YouTube highlights Thaddeus's journey and encourages potential donors to come forward. The family has expressed gratitude for the community's efforts, with Christi stating, “It’s been remarkable to witness, to be honest with you.”
Criteria for Potential Donors
To be considered as a donor for Thaddeus, individuals must be 45 years old or younger, have a Body Mass Index (BMI) under 30, and match his O blood type. The family is hopeful that a living donor will be found soon, as kidneys from living donors typically have a longer lifespan compared to those from deceased donors. Thaddeus is currently on a transplant list for a deceased donor, but this process could take several years.
Thaddeus's Perspective
Thaddeus has expressed a desire to return to a more normal life, stating that receiving a new kidney would allow him to feel less fatigued and more active. He is described by his family as a resilient and positive individual who volunteers at his school, church, and local food bank. His parents have emphasized their faith in God during this challenging time, which has provided them with strength and hope.
Conclusion
The situation for Thaddeus is critical, and his family is appealing to the public for assistance in finding a suitable kidney donor. As they navigate this difficult journey, the support from their community remains a vital source of encouragement. Anyone interested in potentially donating a kidney can find more information through the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia's website, which includes a QR code for easy access to the donor questionnaire.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Dialysis is a heavy thing. I don’t know any 14-year-old who’s happy, athletic – nobody wants to be encumbered. It’s a huge burden for a child,” — Christi DeMark, Thaddeus's mother
- “He is absolutely the strongest and most resilient person that I know,” — Family Campaign Statement
- “I can’t tell you how incredible it is to have the support of our community — reaching out and trying to make connections for us and spread the word,” — Christi DeMark, Thaddeus's mother
