Help a Veteran, Father, and Mentor Get a Second Chance — Become a Living Kidney Donor
My name is Joseph Walthall, and I’m seeking a life-saving kidney transplant. After being diagnosed with chronic kidney disease in 2018, my health has declined to stage 5. I’m now at a point where I urgently need a kidney donation to regain my strength, energy, and ability to give back to my community—something that has defined my life for over 40 years.
A Life of Service – Military and Beyond
I proudly served in the U.S. Navy from 1973, spending four years on active duty and two in the reserves. My time in the Navy included assignments at weapons stations and with the Seabees, where I worked on ship maintenance and construction, and played for the base basketball team.
After leaving the military, I continued my commitment to service—this time in civilian life. I worked with the VA in pharmacy, helping disabled veterans while continuing my education. From there, I found my calling: working with at-risk youth. I spent over three decades mentoring, supporting, and advocating for teens, many of whom were emotionally challenged or coming from difficult backgrounds.
I served as a boy’s club athletic director, a YMCA instructor, a group home director, and a leader in a nonprofit focused on the care of at-risk youth. After moving to Murrieta, I continued my work with Child Help USA as well as helping teen offenders in their rehabilitation. My final role before retiring was as a playground supervisor and Watch DOGS (Dads of Great Students) coordinator at my son’s elementary school, where I worked to increase male involvement and campus safety.
Family is My Foundation
I’ve been married to my wife Kristen for 22 wonderful years. As a blended family, together we’ve been blessed with 4 children and 6 grandchildren. My greatest joy has always been seeing my family grow and supporting them every step of the way.
Kidney Disease Has Changed My Life
Since my diagnosis, fatigue and physical limitations have forced me to step back from the volunteer work and social activities I love. I miss being present in my community, mentoring young people, and spending quality time with my peers.
But I’m not ready to stop giving back. I want to return to my role as a mentor, volunteer, and father figure—not just to my family, but to the many youth who still need guidance and support.
What a Kidney Would Mean
Receiving a kidney transplant would mean more than just extended life—it would mean restored purpose. I dream of returning to volunteer work, running youth basketball tournaments, and once again playing dominoes and cards with the friends I’ve lost touch with. I want to live fully and continue making a difference.
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 Joseph‘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