Why I Run
In 2007, my grandfather Dada experienced kidney failure after a long battle with kidney disease and was in immediate need of a kidney donor. After many tests and examinations, it was concluded that my uncle Vijoy (aka Uncle V) was the best match to donate his kidney to Dada. On May 22nd, 2007, the transplant team at Barnes-Jewish Hospital successfully transplanted Uncle V's left kidney to Dada.

While I was too young to fully comprehend the procedure, severity of the situation, and impact on my family, my family has celebrated the success of the transplant and Uncle V's bravery and compassion over the last 20 years. Every year on May 22nd, we celebrate the Organ-iversary as Sons' and Daughters' Day, a tradition started by Dada. Uncle V is a wildly talented vocalist, drummer, and guitarist, and would play gigs with his band in St. Louis raising money for the National Kidney Foundation. Growing up, we would also annually walk the Kidney Walk with my entire extended family. Dada passed away in 2015, and we have continued to celebrate V's donation and Dada's gratitude and pride in his children and grandchildren.

I run for Uncle V, Dada, kidney donors, those living with and affected by kidney disease as well as all doctors, researchers, and innovators in the field of kidney research. I am proud to run for my family and such an amazing cause! Funny enough, Uncle V and my Aunt Lesley are the ones that got me hooked on running in the first place! Your generous donation provides patients and families with access to high-quality care, advocates for policies that prioritize equitable kidney care, and supports research and innovation to advance detection and treatment methods. 

Thank you so much for your support!