Agnihotri, after receiving a life-saving kidney transplant, dedicated himself to helping others facing kidney failure.
A little over a decade ago, Atul Agnihotri found out he had a kidney failure. He had a young family and didn't know if anyone would step up to help save his life.
"But in the most miraculous way, in about two and a half months' time, I received a kidney," Agnihotri said. "And you know, I just celebrated ten years of having received my kidney, and I'm eternally grateful to the donor and the donor's family, primarily for having made the decision to save mu life."
Agnihotri realizes how fortunate he is. According to the United Network For Organ Sharing, there are about 100,000 people waiting for a kidney transplant in the U.S. at any time.
"It's given me ten years," Agnihotri added. "I did go back to my corporate life, but then, you know, I kept talking to some other patients and I felt like, if I don't step up, then who else will?"
He studied the data on kidney donors and recipients extensively and found an interesting tie.
"There is something, some relationship between a recipient story and a donor that inspires the donor to step up and save their life," Agnihotri said.
Ninety-six percent either donated to a family member or someone they could identify with - they wear the same uniform or go to the same church. So, Agnihotri started a non-profit called Kidneys For Communities to support patients and donors.
Nearly three years ago, the organization started an initiative to help the 10,000 first responders and 1,000 children who are waiting for a new kidney. However, the overall mission is broader -- to encourage more donors and dispel myths.
"Every human being has two kidneys, and science has proven that we can have a comfortable, normal life with one kidney," Agnihotri said. "My Dad, himself, was a kidney donor, and lived on to live a long life. He passed away at 95, totally healthy."
Agnihotri says he realizes it's a major surgery but, with so many people desperately needing a transplant to stay alive, he's hoping more will consider it.
"Imagine living a life where you know that you saved a human being from dying and then that individual is eternally grateful for your act," he added. "It's the biggest gift you can give."
Agnohtri says there are several important aspects of his organization that he believes are important for anyone who might consider donating a kidney. Potential donors are matched with a support person, who has donated a kidney. They can also back out at any time. No questions asked.
The non-profit also works to cover financial hurdles for potential donors - travel, lodging, any lost wages and more.
For more information on Kidneys For Communities, click .
