Monday, February 22, 2010

Man Finds Kidney Donor Via Facebook & Twitter

After coping with IGA Nephropathy for three years, Chris Strouth learned he needed a lifesaving kidney transplant. Chris had always been upbeat about battling his illness, which he called “Harold,” so when he learned of his need for a transplant, he immediately turned to his social networks.

"I need a kidney,” he wrote on Twitter. Later, he posted more detailed information on Facebook. Nineteen followers and friends quickly responded saying they would be tested as potential donors. Before long, Chris received a message from an acquaintance saying he was a match.

Scott Pakudaitis was one of those 19 people who was willing to be tested for Chris. The two men had met many years before as their paths crossed on the Twin Cities music scene when Scott was managing a band and Chris was the Director of Artists and Products for Twin/Tone Records.

December 1, after six months of dialysis treatments, Chris received a second chance at life, thanks to Scott’s selfless gift--the kidney Chris affectionately calls "William the Conqueror." How can you thank someone who give you a new lease on life? For Chris, he simply promises to live up to the potential Scott gave him.

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