Our Stories

Kadin's story

Kadin Hoven was only five days old when doctors first diagnosed him with kidney failure. Today, he is a creative and accomplished 16-year-old who is thriving thanks to the power of living donation.

Kadin Hoven is the recipient of three living donations: the first organ was a gift from his father, Shawn; the second was a paired exchange with his mother, Heidi; and the third was a gift from a family friend.

These kidney transplants were gifts of life that have enabled Kadin to grow up and discover his passion for music. “Music basically traps me in my head, which I like. Being able to relate to something [like] a piece of music is what I enjoy most. It's really helped me get through a lot,” he says.

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"Kadin is such a remarkable young man. I'm so impressed by him, proud of him with how he advocates for himself, is aware of his health and listening to his body and what he needs, and he's just an amazing old soul."
Valen Keefer
Patient Advocacy Consultant, Transplant Diagnostics
Thermo Fisher Scientific

To date, he’s found over 20 new artists that he enjoys. He also likes reading, biking, ice skating, and watching movies.

 

Recently, he’s embraced transplant advocacy, becoming very involved with The Painted Turtle and participating in patient advocacy panels so that he can be a voice for others like him.

Say "YES" to donation!

 

You can give the gift of life to help someone like Kadin. Learn more about living donation or visit the National Kidney Registry.

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