At just 19 years old, during a routine basketball preseason physical, Jelani Gardner was blindsided by a diagnosis that would alter the course of his life. Protein found in his urine led to further medical investigations, revealing a serious kidney condition. Despite having no symptoms, this young athlete faced an unimaginable challenge.
About Jelani Gardner
Basketball was Jelani’s world. As a promising athlete, he never imagined anything could hinder his ability to play. Yet, his diagnosis required him to step back from the game during the season to undergo biopsies and medical evaluations.
While he continued to play through college, even getting invited to the NBA draft, his health prevented him from passing the physical required to play professionally. Reflecting on this, Jelani shared, "I was one of the top players in the country, top five. So, you know, a lot of my peers went on to do well and make a lot of money." He added, "I'm still in pain not being able to show the world my true talents." Despite these setbacks, Jelani found opportunities to play overseas, where he showcased his talents for three more years before his condition necessitated the start of dialysis.
Though his professional playing days have ended, Jelani's love for basketball did not. In 2018, he channeled his passion into coaching, founding a basketball program for youth, including his own sons. Jelani stated, "It's hard to even explain how much I love the game. I'll watch it all day, study it, and like to have a plan." His program focuses on using basketball to develop character and strong values among young players. Now, his sons are making their mark in the sport, with his oldest currently playing in college and his younger son excelling in high school basketball. Jelani is driven by the hope to witness their future successes; however, without a kidney transplant, he fears he may not live to see his sons reach their full potential in basketball.
Jelani is deeply connected to the various communities that shape his life. His wife is French, and together, they have raised their children to embrace their multicultural identity. Additionally, Jelani is a prominent figure in the basketball community, valued for both his past achievements and current contributions. Most importantly, his steadfast faith guides his actions and decisions.
Do you want to help Jelani and his family? Please share the link to Jelani’s story or reach out to Kidneys for Communities at info@kidneysforcommunities.org to learn more about how you can help. The Kidneys for Communities team is here to answer your questions.
KIDNEY DONATION
How does kidney donation work?
A donor doesn’t need to be an exact match. In fact, because of the Nobel Prize-winning paired kidney exchange program, your kidney donation will not only save one life, but it will save several more in the chain.
Living kidney donation is safe, and all costs associated with your donation are covered. Living donor kidneys also last much longer than deceased donor kidneys. A deceased donor kidney transplant, on average, lasts 10-15 years while a living donor transplant lasts 12-20 years.
Kidneys for Communities® Donor Benefits
Donating a kidney is one of the most rewarding and fulfilling acts someone can do.
Kidneys for Communities can help you through the process to help save a life, but we know there are many obstacles that can be prohibitive to the donor. At Kidneys for Communities, we take care of our donors with the industry’s most complete donor benefits package:
Onboarding and education
Personalized guidance through the donation process
Anonymity
Cost reimbursements:
Travel, food & lodging, lost wages, child, pet and adult care