Kats Anderson (right) of the Hawaii Organ Transplant (HOT) support group presents the financial donation to Lou Ann Plumber Andrade.

LAHAINA – The Hawaii Organ Transplant (HOT) support group gives back to the community and supports people with chronic kidney disease.

The goal of the HOT group is to increase knowledge and help people with transplant-related issues.

On Monday, Dec. 1, Maui HOT member Kats Anderson awarded a check to a future donor, Lou Ann Plumber Andrade.

A resident of Lahaina, Andrade will become a kidney donor this month. The Maui HOT group made a financial contribution to Andrade and her family to assist with the cost of the upcoming procedure.

Andrade said, “I have a friend whose family needed a kidney. My heart had empathy for them. My heart was compelled by Christ. I know if I or my family needed help, I would hope that others would help me, too.”

If you are a transplant recipient or donor and have interest in becoming involved with the Hawaii Organ Transplant group, contact the National Kidney Foundation of Hawaii or e-mail hotblessingsgroup@gmail.com for more information.

In connecting with the community, you can make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals affected by kidney disease and organ transplant. There are no fees associated with joining the group.

According to Jill Holley, director of the National Kidney Foundation of Hawaii, “The National Kidney Foundation of Hawaii Maui Office attends health fairs, employee seminars, wellness programs and community events each month, and we always have donors approaching us inquiring about volunteering and sharing stories.

“This is the time of thanksgiving, and if you have a sincere interest in sharing your personal knowledge and experiences, mentoring via compassionate peer moral support, or educating about healthy kidney lifestyle, please let us hear from you,” Holley added.

During the holiday season, receiving the gift of life is the best present imaginable.

To address this fast-escalating disease on Maui, visit www.kidneyhi.org or call the National Kidney Foundation of Hawaii at (808) 986-1900.