My name is Steve Conklin, and I operated satellite communications equipment (MOS) while serving in the Marines. I served for 8 years, from 1989 to 1997, and served in Somalia and the Gulf War. I left as an E-5. My favorite aspect of serving was the camaraderie with my fellow Marines, and I also enjoyed seeing the world and engaging with different cultures.
I went to school and got my degree in Computer Networking, which, along with my time in the Marines, allowed me to work for communication and satellite companies doing telecommunication engineering. I have worked for the last 25 years at Viasat, Inc., in a product engineer role, and I am still working there currently. I enjoy the teamwork and customer interactions that come with my job.
I was diagnosed with CKD when I was 29 years old and managed it as best I could until my kidney function dropped below 20%. I am now on peritoneal dialysis. Doing PD nightly takes a lot out of me, and between working full time and dialysis, I find myself extremely tired. The swelling in my legs is also hard to manage.
I have been married for 25 years to my beautiful wife Maria, and we have three beautiful daughters: Sophia, Savannah, and Sarah. I have also been blessed with a handsome grandson named Caspian. I love spending time with my family and going camping. I also enjoy working on my truck and spending time with friends. I love to swim laps, and once I get my new kidney, I’m jumping back in the pool ASAP!
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 Steve’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