11 June 2009 | Posted inBlog News & Updates, Featured
Jason Hamlin Needs a Kidney
Life at HOK blogger Jason Hamlin is a 39-year-old senior graphic designer in the marketing department of HOK’s Los Angeles office. He’s a healthy-looking guy who lives near Hollywood with his wife, Rebecca, and stepdaughter, eight-year-old Wallace. Jason and Rebecca are anticipating the arrival of their new baby daughter, Violet, in August.
Jason and Rebecca
Jason came to HOK Los Angeles in 2006 and, interestingly, has a degree in creative writing from the University of Missouri in Kansas City. He loves to ride his fixed-gear bike and he wields a mean guitar (Ask him about playing the entire 16-minute medley of The Beatles’ Abbey Road).
Jason needs a kidney. Fast.
Since 1993, Jason has undergone thrice-weekly dialysis treatments, had two kidney transplants and experienced one complete kidney transplant rejection. Today, he’s suffering through his second kidney rejection. Every time Jason goes to the transplant clinic for checkups he wonders whether that visit will be his last, and if the doctors will then require him to begin dialysis. Meanwhile, the average wait time for blood type O people like Jason who are on a transplant list in California is about 10 years. Thousands of people will die this year while waiting for a cadaveric kidney transplant.
“I’d like to avoid dialysis, get another transplant and continue on with my life,” says Jason.
“Jason is a great, salt-of-the-earth guy who has raised the bar tremendously in terms of the graphic design of our marketing materials,” says HOK Los Angeles Management Principal Riccardo Mascia. “I was shocked when he told me about his condition last month because he works so incredibly hard and has such a good disposition. He’s always interested in making things better.”
Riccardo’s hope is that HOK’s people can somehow help Jason find a kidney donor with type O blood. “We are a tight family here in the LA office and across the firm,” he says. “Jason is part of this family. I hope we all can cast our nets and use the power of HOK to extend his reach. It’s a poignant reminder that some of our people are dealing with serious health issues. Jason bears his own personal cross with incredible grace and strength. He is an inspiration.”
What can you do? You can read Jason’s blog, which he updates quite often. Send him positive vibes. Email the link to friends. Familiarize yourself with the dangers of renal (kidney) failure and how to donate. And if you know a potential live donor for Jason – or think you might be one – tell him. Fast.
Visit http://ineedakidney.wordpress.com/
Email jason.hamlin@hok.com
Hotline for transplant donors at UCLA: 866.672.5333
Wallace
Wallace and Jason
Violet (due Aug. 5)
Post a Comment
We’re gonna find that kidney and get you on with your life my New Hampshire friend…live free!
We’re all looking out for you here, Jason. We’re looking hard.
tons of thoughts and prayers from stl…i think we should throw a concert like on 30 rock… opinions?!
I’m O+
does that work?
i <3 the 30 rock idea (http://www.casttv.com/search/30%20Rock%20Kidney%20Now!/1 for those of you non-fans)…and i know some great harmonica players (ahem..sarcasm alert!)
Good luck Jason!
FYI, if you call the donor number at UCLA (1-866-672-5333) they will ask you some questions and then let you know in a couple of weeks if you are eligible for testing. It is a first step if you are O anything.
Thank you all. I am so lucky to have your support. Donate Life America has concerts fairly often in major cities, you can buy tix and support the organization. Please follow me on twitter so you can keep updated on my posts. THANK YOU.
Jason – I did not know about your condition, nor did I know that you’re a musician. Now that I’ve been made aware of these important facts, I look forward to jammin’ with you in LA after we find you a kidney. Music and support from friends and family have gotten me through the toughest times of my life, and it looks like you’re equally well-equipped. Let us know if the ATL team can do anything to help!
Hi,
I am O+ too.
Jason, I will spread the word around my circle. Let’s talk!!
Not sure my blood type but want to get tested.
Jason – I did not know about your situation. I may have a contact that can help. Hang in there and be strong. I will get back to you. – Richard
Jason,
As I mentioned to you today, I will be praying for you. Sorry I don’t have the right blood type but if I find someone who does I will let you know. God works miracles everyday. Stay strong and encouraged. God always makes a way.
Denise
I will definitely spread the word.
Jason,
Thanks for sharing your need with all of us. I’ll be sure to ask around and will keep you and your family in my prayers.
Jon
Im B+ve 38 yrs old would that help, Im willing to help, contact rajpanikar@hotmail.com. Will pray for your speedy recovery.
i want to help yoy,my blood is 0 positif,very health,25 years!
shuster1985@yahoo.com
I hate to have to point this out, but … it is illegal in all 50 states to buy or sell organs. Thank you so much to all of you who have offered a kidney at a cost – I must respectfully decline your offers. Even if I had the means to spend a great deal of money, I doubt very much that I would break the law for my own personal gain.
If you remain interested in donation, I can assure that most donors report great satisfaction with having given life to another person. There are wonderful accounts on my blog. Thanks.
http://ineedakidney.wordpress.com