CORDELE, Ga. (WALB) — A Cordele man in Stage 5 kidney failure is among nearly 90,000 people across the United States waiting for a kidney transplant, and his search for a living donor is now reaching beyond his circle of family and friends.

Marty Pickron said his health declined rapidly after a stroke in 2023, just two weeks after leaving a job he had held for five years and three days after selling his house in Albany.

“In 23, I just left a job that I’d been in for five years. Two weeks after I left the job and three days after I sold my house in Albany, I had a stroke. And when I was in the hospital, the one thing they weren’t really worried about was the stroke,” Pickron said.

Daily life altered by kidney failure

Pickron said Stage 5 kidney failure has significantly changed his daily routine. He said he has lost energy and the desire to do things he once enjoyed, including traveling. He has also been unable to shower since having a port placed, because water entering the port goes directly to the heart.

Potential donors have backed out

According to the Pickrons, several potential donors have come forward but backed out due to medical reasons. Despite those setbacks, the couple said support from friends and family has helped them remain hopeful.

“We’ve had a lot, a lot of support. Both of us have family who have been right there with us. Had friends step up and help fix things when he wasn’t able to. It’s a wonderful feeling to have friends who are there for you, who are always calling to check on you,” Pickron said.

If you or someone you know is interested in learning more about becoming a living kidney donor, click here to register in Atlanta, and click here to register in Jacksonville, Florida.

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