Massapequa Native In Need Of Kidney Donor Turns To Social Media For Help

MASSAPEQUA, NY - A Massapequa native in need of a kidney has turned to social media to seek help from the local community.

Jack Guida, 29, recently posted on Facebook hoping to share his story of his struggle with kidney failure.

"I'm hoping that the power of social media will help get my story out to as many people as possible," he wrote. "Even if someone can't help me, I hope to raise awareness on the importance of being an organ donor."

Guida found out about his health issues about 6 years ago. He started on dialysis at age 23 and currently has dialysis about 3 times a week.

"[When I found out about my health issues], I very depressed, I felt like my life was over," he told Patch. "In essence, it is."

Due to his weak immune system, he has been spending more times at doctors resulting in low blood pressure, a high heart rate, nausea, and low energy.

"Instead of having a normal life and being a normal 20 year old, I've been in and out of doctors' offices for over six years," he said. "The dialysis is very taxing on my body and it's no way to live life. My quality of life has deteriorated and my hopes for a normal future are dwindling. Things you take for granted such as taking a vacation with family and/or friends, eating, drinking, and going to the bathroom are things I can not do."

Guida is on the waiting list for a transplant but says his hopes are "low."

"I am desperate for someone to save my life. I have my whole life ahead of me and have missed out on so much already," he said.

Anyone interested in making a donation can call 516-528-9138.

Image via Jack Guida