At Kidneys for Communities, we work hard to create stories about the life-changing impact of living kidney donation, and few are as inspiring as the journey of Portland firefighter Venedo Alcazar and retired nephrologist Dr. Karen Douek. Their story reminds us why community, compassion, and selfless actions matter.

Venedo Alcazar, a dedicated member of Portland Fire & Rescue, had been battling stage five chronic kidney disease — the most advanced stage of kidney failure — for years. With his kidney function falling to just 15%, Venedo faced the harsh reality that he would need a transplant to survive and return to the career he loves: serving his community as a firefighter.

Dr. Karen Douek, a retired nephrologist, was involved in a serious biking accident in November 2024, to which first responders from Portland Fire & Rescue responded. In December 2024, a news feature shared Venedo’s search for a donor. Oregon State Fire Marshal Mariana Ruiz-Temple heard the story and connected Venedo with Kidneys for Communities, which then helped guide and support the process. Dr. Douek, who had once hoped to donate a kidney to a former patient, but wasn’t a good match, was inspired by Venedo’s story, and, as fate would have it, they matched.

On December 29, 2025, at Legacy Good Samaritan Medical Center, Venedo received the lifesaving transplant from Dr. Douek. Surrounded by family and his fire crew, he experienced what can only be described as a new beginning.

“I knew my match with Venedo was meant to be,” says Dr. Douek. “There were too many coincidences: the accident, my friend not getting my kidney and being on top of the list, and that Venedo and I were both the rare Type B.”

The successful transplant gave Venedo renewed health, but also the hope of returning to active duty. Doctors anticipate that he could be back on the fire line in the Spring of 2026 — a testament to his resilience and the transformative power of living donation.

Dr. Douek’s decision wasn’t just medical — it was deeply personal. Venedo has said that having a donor who truly understands kidney disease and the transplant process was “a crazy twist” that brought him comfort and confidence throughout recovery.

Today, Venedo and Dr. Douek aren’t just connected by surgery — they’re family. They’re planning celebrations with loved ones, and sharing meals, stories, and gratitude. Their bond reminds us that donation isn’t just a medical procedure — it’s a shared human experience filled with empathy, courage, and connection.