Hi I’m Linda Notovitz, and I live in Long Island, New York. I’m stepping way out of my comfort zone to make this video today because I am in urgent need of a living kidney donor to save my life. I am a daughter, a sister, and a teacher.

My family means everything to me. It means the world to help my 100-year-old mom stay active and grateful for another day, and to be there for my two sisters who have their own medical struggles.

I'm a teacher. My life’s work is helping students find their authenticity and their voice. But right now, I am running out of time.

For 11 years, I took necessary medication for my health. Quietly and irreversibly, it damaged my kidneys. I am in Stage 5 kidney disease and facing the reality of dialysis. According to mynephrologist, the symptoms leading to dialysis are nausea, throwing up, lack of appetite, and feeling very sick. If I become this ill, it will become much harder to successfully receive a transplant. Right now, I am still in good health—except for my diminishing kidneys.

That is why finding a living donor right now is so critical. I would be so grateful if you shared my story.