BATAVIA, N.Y. — The wait for a live kidney transplant can be a long one, but one Batavia man is staying positive that he'll be able to find a match soon.
Jim Urtel had a kidney donation lined up from a deceased donor, but it turned out the kidney had too much scar tissue and wasn't usable. Now, he's looking for a second chance at life.
Eight years ago, Urtel's diagnosis changed his life forever. Everything from his job, hobbies and daily routine changed in an instant.
He used to train horses that were often abandoned in hopes of getting them back on the race track, giving them a second chance of life.
But now its Urtel's turn.
He needs a live kidney donation and is working with an organization called "Kidneys for Communities" to hopefully find a match.
"Since we know that Jim has dedicated his life to helping saving horses and working inside the equestrian community. We've been reaching out inside the equestrian community and communities around the country to help spread the word for Jim, telling his story so someone could relate and may consider donating to Jim," CEO for Kidneys for Communities, Atul Agnihotri, said.
Urtel is now turning to fitness, making sure his health is it's best for when he finds a living donor.
Click here for a donor registration form.