Hi, my name is Michael. I have spent my life in service—first to my country, and now to my community. Today, I find myself in a position where I need to ask for help in return. I am an honorably retired veteran, having served a combined 21 years with the U.S. Army Reserve and Air National Guard. While in the Army, I deployed from 2004–2005 in support of Operation Enduring Freedom to Afghanistan as a Civil Affairs Specialist attached to a battalion of the 25th Infantry Division. During this deployment, I was honored to receive the Army Commendation Medal with “V” device for valor.
After Afghanistan, I was honorably discharged from the Army, but my desire to serve remained strong, and I enlisted in the Delaware Air National Guard. During my time in the Guard, I deployed two more times as a firefighter to Oman and Qatar. I ultimately retired at the rank of Senior Master Sergeant, having served as Fire Chief for the 166th Civil Engineer Squadron Fire Department. What I valued most about my military service was the sense of purpose, the people I served alongside, and the opportunity to lead and mentor others.
I currently serve as a Captain with the Washington, D.C. Fire and EMS Department, assigned as the Company Commander of the Fireboat Company. In this role, I lead a specialized maritime response unit responsible for emergency operations on the Potomac and Anacostia Rivers, including fire suppression, rescue, hazardous materials response, and emergency medical care. My career in the fire service has been defined by teamwork, preparation, and a commitment to helping others on their worst days.
In my civilian career, I have been fortunate to continue that same mission of service. Whether responding to emergencies, coordinating with regional and federal partners, or helping develop training and safety programs, I have always found fulfillment in being part of something bigger than myself.
Outside of work, I am grounded by my family. My wife, Mara, along with our two children and extended family, have been my constant source of support and strength. They have stood beside me through every chapter of my life—including this one—and continue to remind me what matters most.
My journey with kidney disease has been a long one. Shortly after returning from Afghanistan, I was diagnosed with IgA Nephropathy and Stage 2 chronic kidney disease. During my deployment to Qatar, I experienced a ruptured appendix and was medically evacuated to Germany, then to Walter Reed Bethesda. The complications from that event advanced my condition to Stage 4 chronic kidney disease.
Over time, my kidney function has declined to the point where I have now been placed on the transplant registry. While I am not currently on dialysis, I am facing increasing limitations in energy, endurance, and overall health. Like many in this situation, I now need a kidney transplant to continue living a full and active life—and to remain the husband and father my family depends on.
I remain committed to staying as healthy and active as possible, but there are things I cannot control. A transplant would allow me to spend more time with my family, continue serving in my role without limitations, and return fully to the life I have worked so hard to build.
If you are reading this, I respectfully ask that you consider becoming a living kidney donor—not just for me, but for anyone in need. Living donation is a powerful, life-saving gift. Even if you are not a match for me, you may be able to help someone else through paired donation programs.
I understand this is a deeply personal decision. My goal in sharing my story is simply to raise awareness and offer the opportunity for someone to consider whether this is something they might be willing to explore.
Thank you for taking the time to read my story—and for considering being part of something truly life-changing.
We need you to help us support Michael. Whether through spreading the word on social media or considering becoming a donor, you can make a profound impact!
Living kidney donation has been proven to be safe. There are no long term consequences to the donor. After recovery, donors can live a normal life with one kidney.
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.
Please click on the link below if you would like to learn more OR call (551) 233-1611.