MORRIS COUNTY — For nearly four decades, Karen Zabriskie has lived with a disease that has quietly shaped every aspect of her life. At the age of 17, Karen was diagnosed with Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD), a hereditary condition that causes cysts to grow on the kidneys, eventually leading to kidney failure. Now 56 years old, she has spent 39 years battling chronic kidney disease with remarkable strength, resilience, and hope.
Today, Karen faces the fight of her life. She is in need of a living kidney donor.
Karen is currently listed for a kidney transplant through the Renewal Program and at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center in Livingston. While she remains hopeful, the reality is that thousands of patients are waiting for a kidney, and the wait for a deceased donor organ can take years. A living donor could give Karen the second chance she desperately needs.
Helping spread Karen’s story is kidney advocate Donna Tissot, who has dedicated countless hours to raising awareness for transplant recipients in need of lifesaving donors.
“Karen has spent most of her life courageously fighting this disease,” said Tissot. “She is not asking for sympathy…she is asking for a chance to live. Somewhere out there is a person who could save her life, and we simply need to help them find each other.”
Many people are unaware that living kidney donation is often possible even if they are not a direct blood-type match. Through paired exchange programs, a willing donor can help Karen receive a compatible kidney while helping another recipient as well. There is no cost to the donor for evaluation or surgery, and many support programs are available to help donors throughout the process.
For Karen, a transplant would mean far more than improved health. It would mean freedom from the daily uncertainty of kidney disease. It would mean more time with family, more opportunities to create memories, and the chance to enjoy the simple moments in life that so many take for granted.
Those interested in learning more about becoming a living donor for Karen can complete a confidential questionnaire through the Renewal Program at renewal.org/R26816. Potential donors may also contact the Living Donor Program at Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center by visiting cbmclivingdonor.org or calling Alyson at (973) 322-5028.
Even if you are unable to donate, sharing Karen’s story could help it reach the one person who can.
After 39 years of fighting kidney disease, Karen continues to hold onto hope that her lifesaving donor is out there. Perhaps this story will help bring them together.
