Volunteer spreads word about kidney donations

My name is Candi Zitzka. I'm 27 and live in Downers Grove. In 2012, I donated my kidney to my uncle who suffered from PKD. The reason I decided to become a donor was because a year earlier my mom had donated her kidney to my cousin, who suffered from PKD as well.

During my recovery, I decided I wanted to be more involved and get my story out that organ donation is, in fact, a wonderful thing. I hosted my first fundraiser in 2013, raising over $1,200, which was all donated to the PKD Foundation. While looking for donations for my fundraiser, I learned how willing people are to help after hearing my story.

I also participated in my first walk that year in honor of my cousin and uncle. The hardest thing about this illness is learning how many people in my family have actually passed away from it and those who are suffering from it now.

In 2014, while planning for my second fundraiser, I was approached by the PKD Foundation to be a volunteer coordinator. Since volunteering, I have had many people ask more about my story and how they can get involved.

I have now done two walks, both with my husband and family. One was during my time as a volunteer coordinator, so I was involved with the planning, including setting up the Penny Dash for the younger kids before the walk.

Seeing the turnout at the walks is really something great. Before my surgery, I honestly didn't realize how many families were affected by this illness. It's amazing what you can learn and who you meet by looking for people in your area that have gone through or are going through something your family has.

This September will be three years since my transplant and I'm living a healthy life. In fact, I just had my first baby this past April. My uncle is doing wonderful as well, along with my mom and cousin.

Being a volunteer coordinator and part of the PKD Walk has been a wonderful experience, and I'm truly honored to be a part of a great foundation.