NORFOLK -- A local sailor is using social media in hopes of finding a kidney donor.
The life-changing news came last Fall when 29-year old Max Brown went on what he thought was a routine visit to the dentist. His blood pressure was dangerously high and he later learned that he had suffered kidney failure. He was diagnosed with chronic kidney disease.
"It took a while to absorb, you know, even today it's hard to think too far into the future because there's so much uncertainty," said Brown.
Until last October, the aviation electronics technician first class was flying high in his Navy career. His job was to maintain the MH-60s Seahawk helicopter for the Naval Station Norfolk-based Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 22. Because of his medical condition, he may soon be discharged from the Navy.
After learning about his serious kidney problems, Brown accepted help from his father and his wife and they got busy building a Facebook page called "A kidney for Max" to search for a donor. The Texas native needs a blood type O+ kidney donor.
"We've had hundreds of hits, and I think maybe three of four people have offered to get screened to be a potential donor to me," said Brown. "I'd say so far, it's been successful."
The kidney transplant process can take years, but Brown hopes technology and a generous donor will prevent him from having to wait much longer. He is currently undergoing dialysis treatments three times a week at four hours each. Meantime, he tries to stay positive.
"I'm upbeat today. Some days are harder to deal with than others. I feel confident things will work out for me. That so many people are willing to get screened, that just shows the good will that's out there."
Click here to visit Max Brown's Facebook page.
