AMH1(AW) James R, Ellis III – I served in the US Navy as an Aviation Structural Mechanic (Hydraulics) for 20 years. Serving aboard USS Independence CV-62, USNS Chauvenet TAGS-28, USS Leyte Gulf CG-55, USS Kauffman FFG-55, Squadrons HSL-30 Det A, VAQ-33, HX-21 NAS Pax River. Aircraft includes D707 Buddy stores (IFR) SH260, A-3 Sky Warrior, A-6 Intruder, A-4 Skyhawk.
After retirement, I worked for the US Government as a Contractor with DynCorp International for 25 years working at HX-21 test and Evaluation Squadron and United States Navy test Pilot School working on H-60 Blackhawks and H-58 Kiowa Warrior.
I have been married to my lovely wife for 29 years, and I have four boys that are very successful in what they’re doing. I also have two daughters who are very successful and are considered a part of my support group. I have been blessed with ten grandchildren and one great-granddaughter.
In 2023, I was diagnosed with Stage 5 kidney disease and began home hemodialysis in November of 2024, which is keeping me alive. I try to take good care of myself by eating right, but I am not allowed to lift things or play sports.
The gift of a kidney transplant would allow me to have a more active lifestyle. I am a Deacon at my church but would love to be more involved. I want to return to being able to go on an extended vacation, get back to the gym and play basketball again. All things I could do without needing to worry about doing dialysis four days a week.
James has enlisted the help of a Veteran’s organization called DOVE Transplant which is helping in his outreach to find his life-saving kidney donor. 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 this Veteran’s life!
Will you join DOVE in our mission to find a kidney for James? 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