STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Tommy Baratta needs your help.
Thomas “Tommy” Baratta, 44, a beloved Staten Islander whose battle with chronic kidney disease has entered a critical phase, needs a living kidney transplant to save his life.
The waiting list for a deceased donor’s kidney can last up to seven years, and thus a living kidney donor is needed. Born with Becker Muscular Dystrophy and a previous recipient of a heart transplant, Baratta now faces the incredibly difficult challenge of finding a living kidney donor.
To help him and others in his position, the donatetosavealife.org campaign has been launched, whose mission is to mobilize support and spread awareness about Baratta’s urgent need for a kidney transplant and the broader importance of living organ donation.
“Tommy’s story is one of extraordinary resilience and hope,” said Jason Baratta, spokesperson for the campaign and Tommy’s brother. “Despite the hardships posed by his condition, he has maintained an indomitable spirit and an unwavering faith in the power of community and compassion.
“Through ‘Donate to Save a Life,’ we hope to not only find a donor for Tommy but also to highlight the critical need for living kidney donors across the nation. Everyone’s participation can make a life-saving difference. Tommy has spent his life fighting against the odds, and now he needs our help.”
A new initiative, “Donate to Save a Life,” has been unveiled to secure a life-saving kidney transplant for Thomas “Tommy” Baratta, 44, a beloved Staten Islander whose battle with chronic kidney disease has entered a critical phase. (Courtesy Brian Licata)Courtesy Brian Licata
SPREADING AWARENESS
In addition to seeking a kidney donor, the initiative seeks to educate the public on kidney disease, the transplant process, and the profound impact of organ donation. The site includes a comprehensive FAQ section, contact forms for potential donors, and inspiring stories from individuals impacted by kidney disease.
The campaign website features detailed information about Baratta’s journey, the process of becoming a living kidney donor, and ways the community can assist. Potential donors are encouraged to come forward and learn more about the donation process, which has the power to transform lives.
“Tommy’s courage in the face of adversity is a beacon of hope for all of us,” said Jason. “This campaign is a call to action for anyone moved by his story. Together, we can create a legacy of life, one donation at a time.”
To manage his Chronic Kidney Disease, Tommy endures dialysis sessions three times a week; despite this, he navigates the complexities of his condition with the same unwavering spirit he has always shown.
“Tommy’s indefatigable spirit that inspires us all,” added Jason. “He stands as a beacon for those grappling with Muscular Dystrophy and Chronic Kidney Disease, as well as for any individual facing seemingly insurmountable odds. His faith and hope have never faltered, rooted in the belief that community and human kindness will pave the path to his recovery.”
A new initiative, “Donate to Save a Life,” has been unveiled to secure a life-saving kidney transplant for Thomas “Tommy” Baratta, 44, a beloved Staten Islander whose battle with chronic kidney disease has entered a critical phase. (Courtesy Brian Licata)Courtesy Brian Licata
IMMEDIATE STEPS TO DONATE
For individuals inspired by Tommy Baratta’s story and considering kidney donation, the NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center has streamlined the process to get started. Interested parties are encouraged to complete the Kidney Donor Questionnaire, a critical first step in determining eligibility for donation.
To explore the possibility of becoming a living kidney donor for Tommy or others in need, please visit the following link to complete the Kidney Donor Questionnaire provided by NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center.
Potential donors must first fill out a donor questionnaire, a confidential and secure way for potential donors to provide essential information required for the preliminary evaluation. It’s a gesture of hope and a step toward saving lives, reflecting the essence of our campaign’s mission.
A new initiative, “Donate to Save a Life,” has been unveiled to secure a life-saving kidney transplant for Thomas “Tommy” Baratta, 44, a beloved Staten Islander whose battle with chronic kidney disease has entered a critical phase. (Courtesy Brian Licata)Courtesy Brian Licata
ABOUT ‘DONATE TO SAVE A LIFE’
“Donate to Save a Life” is a campaign launched to support individuals in need of life-saving organ transplants, starting with Tommy Baratta, a Staten Islander fighting chronic kidney disease.
Through raising awareness, facilitating donor matches, and supporting kidney health initiatives, the campaign aims to inspire actions that save lives.
“We thank NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center for their partnership and commitment to facilitating life-saving connections through organ donation,” added Jason. “Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those waiting for a transplant.
For more information on how to help or to learn more about Tommy Baratta’s story, please visit donatetosavealife.org or email info@donatetosavealife.org
A new initiative, “Donate to Save a Life,” has been unveiled to secure a life-saving kidney transplant for Thomas “Tommy” Baratta, 44, a beloved Staten Islander whose battle with chronic kidney disease has entered a critical phase. (Courtesy Brian Licata)Courtesy Brian Licata
A new initiative, “Donate to Save a Life,” has been unveiled to secure a life-saving kidney transplant for Thomas “Tommy” Baratta, 44, a beloved Staten Islander whose battle with chronic kidney disease has entered a critical phase. (Courtesy Brian Licata)Courtesy Brian Licata