My name is Michael Wells, and I proudly served in the US Air Force. My time in the military took me to Chanute AFB, Seymore Johnson AFB, and Anderson AFB in Guam. I spent my military career doing aircraft maintenance on B-52 and KC-135 aircraft. My Air Force time was among the best years of my life for two reasons: first, the discipline, teamwork, and work ethic helped me succeed in the civilian job market; second, the friendships I made while serving. After almost 50 years, I still maintain contact with several people who were part of our 68th Field Maintenance Squadron.
I grew up in Belpre, Ohio, and that is where I met my beautiful wife Jeanettee. We have been married for 46 years and have one daughter, Jena. After the military, I went on to use my maintenance and electrical skills at DuPont/Chemours. I worked as an electrical and instrument analyzer mechanic for both the West Virginia and North Carolina locations.
During my time in the Air Force, it was discovered that I had an abnormality in my urine. My kidneys remained stable for many years until they started to decline in the mid 2000’s. It was through multiple kidney biopsies that I was found to have “Thin Basement Membrane” disease. As of today, I am in stage 5 Kidney Failure. I am preparing to start dialysis in the event I do not find a kidney donor soon.
Life looks much different now. My wife and I live on a 12-acre farm in South Carolina with our only daughter, her husband, and our 5 grandchildren. I spend my days helping out with the goats and doing projects around the farm as I am able. My five grandchildren keep me busy playing cards, watching movies, and going to their sporting events.
Over time, my kidney disease has affected my life with a noticeable decline in energy, along with swelling in my legs, nausea, and muscle cramping, increased doctor and outpatient appointments, and stricter dietary requirements.
I feel blessed to still enjoy taking short trips and spending time with friends and family. My prayer is that I will find a Living Donor, working through the Hines VA Medical Center and with DOVE, before I would need to start dialysis.
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.