Man Seeking New Kidney Gets Help From an Old Friend

A Merrimac, Massachusetts, man who needs a kidney transplant is getting some much needed help from a high school friend with a unique idea.

"I put the letters over the duck tape and said that'll work," explained Raymond, New Hampshire resident Regina Nadeau.

It's not your typical bumper sticker, but it's certainly making a statement.

"We have 9,000 shares right now," Nadeau said.

The message on her Dodge Dakota pickup truck is going viral.

She's received 400 phone calls, done dozens of interviews, and says right now, three people are being tested to donate their kidney to her best friend, Donald Hall.

"She's given me a great inspiration of life she really has," Hall told necn on Tuesday.

The two went to Amesbury High School together, but hadn't seen each other in 43 years. When Hall posted his story on Facebook last December, Nadeau reached out. They connected, and then in May, she came up with the idea to put the message, "Need Kidney, Type O, (603) 777-6258" on the back of her vehicle.

"It's staying until Donald gets a kidney," Nadeau said

The 33-year-veteran of the Amesbury and Newburyport police department is on a waiting list for a kidney and has spent nearly three years on dialysis.

"I go three days a week for four-hour treatments," Hall said.

Each minute, he says, eating away at the strength he once had.

"Mentally, it does depress you," Hall admitted.

But Hall's found new hope, thanks to an old friend and her pickup truck.

"It's not only for me, it's for everyone on dialysis," Hall said. "If you're willing to step up to the plate and go get tested, there are other folks out there waiting for that chance at life."

Once Hall gets the transplant he needs, Nadeau says the message on her truck will change to, "Kidney Received. Big Party." She says her number will stay, because she wants anyone and everyone to attend.

"You know what it's going to be called," Hall asked. "A celebration of life."

To find out more, or to get involved in Hall and Nadeau's quest to raise awareness about kidney disease, click here.

Contact Us