He says that’s where he first discovered his passion for service and helping others.
He earned his EMT certification and then became an Advanced EMT, proudly serving communities in northern New Hampshire with Lancaster Fire, Whitefield Fire Department, and Groveton Ambulance Corp. Matt, 29, currently serves as a Call Lieutenant for the Loudon Fire Department and works full-time as a Lieutenant with Lakes Region Mutual Fire Aid.
In addition to his field work, Matt is a certified EMS Instructor Coordinator. “Teaching new EMTs has become one of the most meaningful parts of my career,” he says. “I love watching people grow into confident, capable providers — it’s an incredible thing to help shape the next generation of emergency responders who will carry this profession forward.”
When he’s not working, he finds joy in “the little things” like spending time with close friends, exploring new parts of the country, and soaking in the beauty of different places and people.
Matt’s health journey began in March, 2024, when his annual physical showed he had severe kidney damage. Although he’s still working, he knows that without a new kidney, he will eventually have to slow down and retire.
“The illness has forced me to pause and reflect,” Matt said. “It’s helped me make real lifestyle changes and reminded me not to take the simple things for granted.”
One of the hardest parts of his journey has been learning to ask for help. “That doesn’t come naturally to me,” he said. “I’ve always been the one people turn to in emergencies, not the one in the emergency. But I now realize that strength can mean knowing when to reach out and lean on others.”
Receiving a kidney would give Matt the opportunity to keep doing what he loves: serving others, exploring the world, mentoring new providers, and living life with purpose and presence.
Do you want to help Matt? Please share the link to Matt’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.