Dear Donor: Garrett Dykes

In 1999, Garrett Dykes' life took an unforeseen turn when, at age 16, he was diagnosed with polycystic kidney disease. By the time he was 32, he was in stage 5 kidney failure and suffering from debilitating fatigue and memory issues. In 2017, after nearly three years on peritoneal dialysis, Garrett received a kidney transplant. “For the family to think about giving a second chance to a stranger, when they’re dealing with the worst kind of loss, that’s changed my whole life," Garrett said.

At any time, nearly 1,000 Kentuckians await a lifesaving organ transplant. Without donors, organ transplantation is not possible. To learn more or to register as a donor, please visit donatelifeky.org.