DJ, a 23-year-old from Landenberg, Pennsylvania, has always been driven by a sense of purpose and community. With both parents serving in law enforcement, it’s no surprise that DJ is following a similar path, pursuing a master’s in criminology, law, and society. His goal? To honor his family’s legacy by joining the ranks of law enforcement himself.
ABOUT DJ Riddell
DJ had been feeling off for months—tired, nauseous, and with little appetite—but he chalked it up to his busy schedule.
It wasn’t until his mom urged him to go in for a checkup that the pieces started to fall into place. “The doctor called and told me to get to the hospital immediately. I didn’t even know what renal failure was at the time,” DJ recalls. After a series of tests, he was diagnosed with stage 5 kidney failure. His kidneys were no longer functioning properly, and he needed immediate intervention.
To start treatment, DJ underwent surgery to place a peritoneal dialysis (PD) catheter. In the weeks that followed, he completed training to learn how to manage dialysis himself at home. “They walked me through everything—how to set it up, how to stay safe,” he says. While nightly dialysis took some adjustment, it allows DJ to continue with his studies and work.
Through it all, DJ finds happiness in his work with others. As a graduate assistant and football coach, he enjoys creating connections with the students and players. “Helping people out, getting to know them—it’s what I love most,” he says. Whether he’s guiding a freshman through class schedules or motivating players on the field, DJ really enjoys his work and wants to make an even greater impact in the future.
For DJ, receiving a kidney would mean the opportunity to fully live his dreams. “I can’t wait to focus on my future—graduating, working in law enforcement, and continuing to help people,” he shares. While he’s now used to the routine of nightly dialysis, the physical and emotional toll is a lot. A transplant would not only restore his health but also give him the chance to chase his dreams and make a lasting impact.
A kidney transplant is a gift that will change DJ’s life forever, and you can help make it happen. Consider becoming a living donor or sharing DJ’s story with your community. Every conversation and connection brings DJ closer to finding the perfect match. If you've ever thought about making a life-altering difference in someone's life, consider taking the initial step to see if you can donate. Your decision could give DJ a second chance at life.
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