I was a Gunners Mate on the USS Union LKA-106 and part of a boat crew that carried US Marines and supplies up into the Da Nang Rivers in Vietnam. I served in war from December 1968 to June 1970. I was discharged from the military with the rank of Seaman E-3. During my time in the Navy, I enjoyed being able to travel and experience different cultures.
Once I returned home, I resumed playing bass guitar in a band call, “The Sound of Experience.” We recorded 3 Albums and six 45’s with Sigma Sound Studios in Philadelphia, PA. In the meantime, I also entered the United States Postal Service and worked as a custodian, a maintenance mechanic, a painter and finally working as a carpenter for 28 years. I retired from the postal service in 2005 with 35 years of service. I gained a great deal of experience and satisfaction in the field of carpentry and was able to earn additional income for me and my family.
I was fortunate to meet my Lovely Wife (Carolyn) at the US Postal Service in 1984. It was Love at First Sight, and we were married two years later on January 30, 1986, and settled in our home January 31, 1986. We have been together for 39 years. We have two daughters, Lyn-z Deserae and Ashley Elizabeth. Four grandsons: Zlyn, Pavielle, Cortez, and Xaiver. Also, our beloved Family Dog, Cairo (Black Giant Schnauzer)
When I was discharged from the Navy, I received information on Agent Orange but never gave it a second thought until 30 years later. It started with Prostate Cancer which was cured and then came the Kidney Disease in 2016 (9 years). I was on Peritoneal Dialysis at home for 7 years until September 2024 and now I go to DaVita for Hemodialysis. I am slated to have a Fistula insert in my arm in the near future which will allow me to continue to go to DaVita for continued dialysis until I receive a kidney transplant.
I would like to be able to do some traveling with my wife, lead a normal life without worrying about my health and kidney failure. Being able to engage more with my kids and grandsons. I like to get back to doing home repairs around the house. Playing with my Dog, Cairo. In addition, I would like to be able to go back to playing my bass guitar and meeting up with some of my friends for a jam session.
Will you join DOVE in our mission to find a kidney for Everett? 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!