ATKINSON COUNTY, Ga. (WALB) — A South Georgia family is asking for help as their 20-year-old son continues his fight for a life-saving kidney transplant — now undergoing dialysis at home.

Gavan Tanner was recently diagnosed with kidney failure and is now completing dialysis treatments from home as he waits for a donor.

According to his family, Tanner undergoes hours-long dialysis treatments, often overnight, as part of his new daily routine.

“He tolerated it very well and didn’t get sick… He even said he could drive himself,” a family member shared.

Despite the physical toll, his loved ones say his strength has been remarkable.

“He took it like a champ… He really is amazing me the way he is so strong,” they said.

Until a donor is found, Tanner will continue dialysis treatments at home.

His family says he is blood type O-positive, but even those who are not a direct match may still be able to help through paired donor programs.

The story comes as awareness is being raised for kidney donation. World Kidney Day highlights the need for donors, as more than 2,000 kidney transplants were performed last year, while nearly 7,000 people are still waiting for a life-saving kidney.

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Health advocates say the reality is that some patients will die waiting, but becoming a registered donor can take just minutes and has the potential to save a life.

Tanner’s family is now urging the community to consider becoming a living donor.

“We’re praying that he gets a kidney soon,” they added.

Anyone interested in becoming a donor or learning more about the process is encouraged to contact the Mayo Clinic transplant program.

To help support Gavan and his fight, his mother’s Cashapp is $CandiceBallance

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