Urtel was diagnosed with kidney failure in 2012 and spent eight years on dialysis while continuing to work and stay involved in his community. In 2020, he received a kidney transplant from a deceased donor, which ultimately failed due to significant scarring. Despite the setback, Urtel remained committed to his health, making substantial lifestyle changes, including losing more than 50 pounds, to remain eligible for another transplant.
That dedication culminated in a successful transplant made possible by Sharon West, a 25-year-old volunteer emergency medical technician (EMT) for the Pavilion Fire Department in Pavilion, NY, and living kidney donor who stepped forward to help a stranger in need. Although Jim and Sharon did not know each other before the transplant, her decision resulted in a life-saving match. The two met later after the surgery, a moment that highlighted the extraordinary impact of living organ donation and the human connection behind it.
“There were times when the wait seemed endless,” Urtel said. “Knowing that someone was willing to do this – to help without knowing me – is something I will always carry with me.”
Friends and family describe Urtel as steadfast and pragmatic during his long medical journey, supported by a close-knit community that stood by him through years of dialysis, recovery and renewed hope.
Urtel’s transplant was made possible by Kidneys for Communities, a nonprofit organization dedicated to increasing access to kidney transplants through living donor education and advocacy. By sharing both his and Sharon’s stories, Urtel hopes to raise awareness about kidney disease and the life-changing impact of organ donation.
Currently, more than 90,000 people in the United States are waiting for a kidney transplant. Living donors like Sharon West play a crucial role in reducing wait times and saving lives. For more information about kidney donation and transplant advocacy, please visit www.niersforcommunities.org.
van Nieren for Communities
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