Hi, my name is Brian P. Heath, and I am a 58-year-old US Army veteran. I live in Goshen MA, which is nestled in the foothills of the Berkshires. I have lived in this area all my life and have strong historical roots here. I became a Dad to my amazing daughter, Matteson (Matte) on November 14, 1996. I joined the Laborers Union of North America in June 1988, retiring in 2018 after 30 years. I needed to retire early due to my kidney disease.
In 1986 while serving in the 10th Mountain Division, I was with the 2/14 Infantry. The Battalion was going through jungle training in Panama. After four weeks of training and just before I graduated from jungle school, I became sick. After flying back from Panama to Ft. Benning GA, I was hospitalized at the Ft. Benning hospital for two days.
This would be the first time that I would be hospitalized for my kidneys. I have been diagnosed with IGA Neuropathy, a rare kidney disease. Some people with IGA Neuropathy kidneys deteriorate quickly. In my case it has been a slow deterioration and now after 38 years I need a kidney transplant.
I enjoy being active as I like to ski, hike, canoe, work around my yard/house, and take my two dogs for long walks. I also have two wonderful grandchildren, Margot 3 and Stevie 1 ½. My wife and I love having them every weekend and taking them camping. In the current stage of my kidney disease, I feel too tired and weak to fully enjoy my grandchildren and all that life has to offer.
My hope is to resume my life to the fullest once I have received a kidney. I want to be a very big and active part of my grandchildren’s lives. To watch them grow, graduate, and start their journey of life.
For medically cleared donors, giving the gift of life through living kidney donation has been proven to be very safe. DOVE will assist all prospective donors throughout the process and make sure they do not incur any out-of-pocket expenses related to the evaluation or surgery. A healthy person can live a normal life with one kidney and save Brian’s life with the other!
Your support, whether through spreading the word on social media or considering becoming a donor, can make a profound impact on his life and the life of his family!
Please click on the link below if you would like to learn more OR call (551) 233-1611