MORRISTOWN, NJ – In December of 2018, Harding resident and Atlantic Health EMS employee, Reid Cappel turned to the community to ask for help finding a kidney. After years of living with only one kidney, his doctors informed him that the remaining kidney was only functioning at 20%. He would now need a kidney transplant.
“Growing up I had a lot of stomach issues”, said Cappel. “When I was 21 years old, they found a massive tumor where the other kidney should have been. Luckily it wasn’t cancerous but I’ve been dealing with Chronic Kidney Disease since then.”
Before Cappel could consider a transplant, doctors told him he would first have to lose at least 40 pounds. Cappel didn’t skip a beat. He underwent Gastric Sleeve Surgery and began working out at Full Time Fitness with owner Matt Scarfo and trainer Anna Rusinskaia.
“Reid is focused, driven, and determined to improve his health and fitnes, said Scarfo.
With the help of Scarfo and Rusinskaia, Cappel has currently lost 52 pounds and is ready to find a suitable kidney donor.
“When I started working with Reid, he was a little apprehensive, but committed to giving me his best, and that he did”, said Rusinskaia. “After just a few weeks, he’s really taken to it. He’s told me he sleeps better, moves easier, and looks forward to each and every workout.”
“I feel so great. Everything has changed for me for the better”, Cappel said. “I’m excited for the doctors to begin the testing process and looking forward to finding a donor.”
Now the man who has dedicated his life to helping others, the man who has helped his community, needs our help. He needs a kidney.
“I need a kidney transplant”, Cappel said. “This will save my life.”
“Not only do I feel great about being able to offer my expertise to Reid, but I feel great knowing that I’m helping him help the scores and scores of people who’s lives he touches as a First Responder and life saver”, said Scarfo. “By helping one, I’m helping many, and that’s a wonderful feeling”.
You can help too. Fill out or share the Living Donor Referral form HERE to see if you are a match.
