Hi. My name is Johanna Murray. I’m a loving sister, daughter, and aunt, and I’m a passionate veterinarian who has dedicated her life to giving a voice to sick animals who might otherwise go unheard. Today, just like them, I could use advocates, because I’m very sick and in urgent need of a kidney transplant.

For most of my life, I’ve had no health problems. But in 2016 I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, which runs in my family. What I was never told was that the diabetes was destroying my kidneys. Then in December of 2022, my life was turned upside down.

I’ve had to do dialysis three times a week to stay alive. The procedure is really taxing on my body, leaving me without energy and the ability to work full-time. The longer I’m on dialysis, the worse things will get for me.

Nevertheless, I’m doing my best to take care of myself. I’m eating healthy, I’ve lost 60 pounds, and my family has been a great support system. And the vet in me would be remiss if I didn’t mention the unconditional love of my three pups at home—Mushu, Taz, and Panda.

The gift of life from a living kidney donor would give me the energy to care for our beloved animals full-time, feel like myself again, and allow me to live without being attached to machine.

I know donating a kidney is a big ask, but it would save my life. I would be so grateful ifyou shared my story.