As is often the case in a serious medical diagnosis, the patient and family can quickly be
overwhelmed by the pronouncement that one is suffering from irreversible kidney failure. With
the increased frequency of transplants from non related donors, it was decided to start an
organization dedicated to assisting people suffering from various forms of kidney disease. About
ten years ago through the initiative of a few caring individuals, Renewal was created.
Although the aim is to help in any way possible, the ultimate goal is obtaining a kidney for
those that would like to undergo a transplant. On the waiting list are people from all walks of
life, and of all ages. Men, women and children ranging in age from a young child to an 80 year
old adult. They are from all parts of the world, including the USA, Canada, Israel as well as
England and Brazil. They all wait for that call that a match has been found. These people are
willing to travel to be in an area closer to the location of the donor, if necessary. Renewal
has been successful in helping many of these patients, but the need is still great. Each year, 8
percent of the patients on the national list die waiting for a kidney. If you feel that this is
something that you can do, it would be a great mitzvah indeed to help any one of these
patients.
Understandably, the first place one would look for a donor is within the family. With kidney
disease however, this is not always the solution. Many times the ailment is a familial one and
therefore the family members are suffering from the same condition. Other times the family is
small and the few that are of age to donate are either not the same blood type and/or not
compatible for various other reasons. Many of our coreligionists are suffering emotionally,
physically, and financially as are their families. Jewish leaders both in Israel and the U.S.
have stated the greatness of this act and have enthusiastically supported those that have given
a kidney.
All costs of the actual procedure are covered by the recipient’s insurance. Transportation for
the testing, if needed, is taken care of by Renewal as is food, lodging for a family member
wishing to be with the donor during the hospital stay. Renewal’s goal is to assist each and
every patient and donor with any help and support they may need.