Pocono News Section

Man Pleads for New Kidney

Man Pleads for New Kidney - Friday, June 4, 2010 at 04:12AM EST

Reported by: Andy Mehalshick
Friday June 04 2010

WEST PENN TOWNSHIP, SCHUYLKILL COUNTY- John Nakata needs a kidney. His condition is worsening by the day. He hopes someone out there can help save his life.

John Nakata is 37-years-old but his next birthday is in question. He spends as much time with his 5-year-old son John and his wife Sherry as he can, but admits it's tough because he is so weak. Doctors say he needs a new kidney as soon as possible. John is a lifelong diabetic and his body is shutting down.

John Nakata said, "He (his son) knows daddy's sick, he knows daddy can't do a bunch of things with him because daddy's sick. He gets very down when I'm in the hospital and I'm not home. I ask him what makes him angry, and he says when daddy has to go to the hospital."

John has been on the national donor registry list for three years. There are no guarantees. He's had some possible donors but so far, none have come through. He undergoes dialysis three times a week.

Nakata said, "It's terrible. It's not a life to live. At least I get to live it here with my son. It's hard not being able to do stuff I really want to do."

Every time the phone rings he prays it is "the call." His wife Sherry says they live minute by minute.

Sherry Nakata said, "When the phone rings at 1:00 in the morning they want to talk to John. I wake him up. It's the University of Pennsylvania and they say you're number two on the list."

So, John prays for a miracle.

John said, "Look at my son. That's what keeps me going right now."

If you can help, (570) 436-5114 or The University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia.

To donate, you must be 18-years-old and in very good health.