Kids 4 Kidneys: A Teacher and His Transplant Journey

Andrew Menard is a retired fourth-grade teacher who inherited polycystic kidney disease from his father. After witnessing the physical and emotional toll of dialysis on his dad, Andrew made a deliberate choice: he would begin looking for a living kidney donor before needing dialysis.

Along the way, Andrew received support from many directions. His fourth-grade students and their families became part of the journey through Kids 4 Kidneys, a community-driven effort that helped raise awareness and bring people together around his need for a transplant. With guidance and support from the American Transplant Foundation, many people stepped forward, each playing an important role—even if they were not ultimately able to donate.

Over time, as Andrew’s kidney disease progressed, the path to transplant became increasingly uncertain. When he reached the point of needing a transplant, there was no clear donor available, and Andrew describes that period as emotionally overwhelming - “I was a wreck.”

Then, in an unexpected and moving turn, the mother of one of his students came forward to donate.

In this episode, Andrew reflects on the emotional reality of waiting, the collective effort behind living donation, and the many visible and invisible contributors who made his transplant possible. He also shares how life after transplant has opened new doors, including his involvement with the Transplant Games of America, where he competes in running events and leads Team Colorado. In summer 2026, the Games will be held in Denver, bringing his journey full circle.

This is a story about living donation as a shared endeavor, the power of community, and what it means to carry forward the generosity of so many.