Paul Adkins is in need of a kidney donor.

Recently, Paul was diagnosed with a very aggressive kidney disease. The disease and the damage to his kidneys is a direct result from the use of Fosamax, that Paul was taking for his bones.

Consequently, Paul will soon have to go on dialysis while he waits for a kidney transplant. Kidneys for transplantation can come from deceased or living donor. But, the waiting time for a kidney from a deceased donor is approximately five years. Kidneys from a living donor have a better long-term survival rate than kidneys from a deceased donor and the waiting time is minimal. After weighing the pros and the cons, Paul and his family and his physicians feel the only choice is for a living donor.

Unfortunately, no one in Paul's immediate family (four children and his wife) have compatible blood. Paul's one sister and two brothers have health conditions that eliminate them as potential donors.

We hope to find someone willing to donate a healthy kidney. The initial criteria for a potential donor is :

• Must be willing and in good health
• Must have type O blood
• Between the age of 17 and 70

If you or anyone you know would like to be a donor or learn more about a kidney donation, please contact :