MURFREESBORO, TN - 14-Year-old Noah Garcia in Murfreesboro, is in need of a new kidney this Christmas. He is currently one of about five on the transplant list at Vanderbilt Medical Center. 

Noah's journey has been marked by resiliency, but he has had his share of challenges too. His first hurdle was at birth and that day came in the form of a non-functional kidney. His mother told WGNS News the non-functional kidney was removed before he started kindergarten. His remaining kidney has since been affected by underlying conditions, which has lead to a steady decline in kidney function over the past 14 years. Now, with only 15 percent kidney function, Noah is officially placed on the national list for a kidney donor, marking a critical juncture in his health.

The Garcia family, determined to find a match for Noah, has already faced the heart-wrenching reality that his mother Melissa Garcia, eager to help as any mother would, is not a compatible donor. That said, the family is actively participating in efforts to find a kidney for Noah.

Donating a kidney is a big decision, but Noah's mother told us doctors at Vanderbilt will first make sure the donor is in good enough physical health to make that donation (Hear full interview above this article)...

Despite all odds, Noah is an active teenage boy who enjoys the same things that his friends enjoy. From riding bikes to playing video games and even cutting grass to earn extra money, Noah is a regular kid. The only difference – and it's a big one - is his urgent need of a type O or B kidney donor willing to donate their kidney.

Kidney disease was first detected before Noah was born during his mother's pregnancy. It was determined by doctors to have occurred because of an underlying medical condition. Having already undergone six surgeries in his young life, Noah's remaining kidney function necessitates the need for a preferred living donor.

To support Noah in his quest for a life-saving kidney, the Garcia family is actively seeking potential donors. Anyone willing to help can visit the Vanderbilt Health website for potential donors. There, they can explore more about the kidney transplant program. You can also go directly to the donor intake form through Vanderbilt University Medical Center by CLICKING HERE.

As the family continues their search for a match, the Murfreesboro community rallies behind them, showcasing the strength and compassion needed in the face of such a challenging journey. You can follow that journey and help spread the word about Noah's need for a new kidney by visiting his Instagram page HERE (@kidney4noahjack).

Questions? If you have any questions about this process, you can reach out to the family at kidney.4.noah.jack@gmail.com.