LIVING KIDNEY DONOR NEEDED • LIVING KIDNEY DONOR NEEDED • LIVING KIDNEY DONOR NEEDED •
Hello everyone, my sister, Jennifer Cassidy, needs a lifesaving kidney transplant. In the US, more than 100,000 people are waiting for a kidney, and a living donor is often their best chance. We’re asking for your help to share Jennifer’s story as widely as possible so she can find her hero willing to give her the gift of a kidney. Please read her story below.
The Heart of Our Family: Jennifer Cassidy’s Journey
Since 2024, Jennifer has been navigating the challenges of end-stage renal disease with unparalleled grace. Jenn is always there for her loved ones, friends, and her community — both people and pets alike. She would do anything for anyone! Jenn had taken an unexpected pause from her 19 year healthcare career, as an LPN, due to her medical conditions.
She has volunteered at an animal rescue, even adopting a few dogs herself. Over the past year, she had dedicated her time to caring for our Mom through her battle with lung cancer. Jenn’s faith keeps her going through challenging times. She focuses on what she can control and recognizes what she can’t.
Her health journey has been one of resilience, but the wait for a deceased donor can take an average of 5 years. Unfortunately she will soon need to start dialysis, as her kidneys continue to fail.
A living donor offers the gift of time and a significantly higher chance of long-term success. Donors are covered by her medical insuance and are eligible for reimbursement for travel, time off work, and other expenses.
We are sharing her story to find a hero who might share the gift of life with someone who has spent her life giving so much to others.
How You Can Help Jennifer
Be a living donor
Interested in being a donor for Jennifer Cassidy? Please fill out the confidential information on UPMC's website by clicking the link below. Questions can be directed to UPMC's Living Donor Office at 412-647-GIFT (4438).
PLEASE MAKE SURE TO PUT IN JENNIFER CASSIDY'S NAME AS THE RECIPIENT
You’re just providing confidential information — this does not commit you to donate and will not be shared with our family unless you decide to.
UPMC Living Donation Process
UPMC believes in absolute transparency and safety. The journey to becoming a living donor is a carefully managed medicinal and supportive process designed to protect your health while offering a second chance at life. Donors do not have to be local!
01. Preliminary Screening
Everything begins with a secure online health questionnaire. This initial step helps us ensure you are at a healthy baseline and ready to proceed to the next phase.
02. Comprehensive Evaluation
Our specialized medical team conducts a series of tests to confirm a perfect match. This thorough process is designed to guarantee your long-term health and surgical success.
03. The Surgical Day
The donation is performed using minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques. This modern approach ensures a faster recovery time, less discomfort, and a smaller surgical footprint.
04. Recovery & Support
Most donors are back to their daily routines within two to four weeks. We provide lifelong appreciation and medical follow-ups to ensure you thrive after your extraordinary gift.
Share Your Support for Jennifer
Messages of Support for Jennifer
"Sending so much love and strength your way, Jenn. You've helped so many throughout your career, and now it's our turn to help you find your hero."
— Sarah, friend
"Praying for a perfect match soon. You are such an inspiration to us all with your resilience and faith!"
— Anonymous
"Jenn, your resilience is incredible. You've given so much back through your volunteering and caregiving. We are all rooting for you!"
— Mark, neighbor
"You are the heart of our community. Stay hopeful, Jenn, a hero is out there waiting to share the gift of life with you."
— Anonymous