Taylor Myers (at left and below) is a junior speech pathology major/sociology minor with a 3.67 GPA. She’s excited
to enter a profession in which she can help people. In addition to being a strong,
focused student, she’s a majorette and is active in her sorority. Last year, in the
midst of juggling her responsibilities as a college student, Myers learned she is
in kidney failure.
Myers' family and friends are working hard to raise awareness so she can find a living donor. To wait for a deceased donor will be a minimum of four years.
"By spreading the word, it will hopefully not only find a donor for me, but also encourage others to become a living donor," Myers said. "The National Kidney Foundation website says that 100,000 people are awaiting a kidney transplant. That's just sad to think that so many people feel awful every day, but have to keep fighting."
Dr. Jane Walsh, associate professor of sociology and Myers' academic advisor, is helping to spread the word that Myers needs a kidney transplant.
"She is now on dialysis seven days a week, which she does herself, at home," Walsh said. "She is a standout student, attending classes in person when she is not in the hospital or getting labs drawn. And during those times, she is on Zoom."
Walsh said Myers has Zoomed into class while in the hospital, in the car, on dialysis,
and from waiting rooms. She refuses to take time off and is still carrying 15 credits.
To those willing to find out if they could be a match for her, Myers expresses gratitude.
"I can't thank them enough for seeing if they could be a match," she said. "By doing this, they could save my life."
Myers said anyone interested in learning if they could be a match can register online at livingdonorreg.upmc.com. In the "Donate to" dropdown box, select "Individual" and insert her full name, Taylor Jessica Myers. The correct spelling is important.
To follow Myers' journey, visit Taylor's Kidney Krew Public Facebook page.
Next week's issue of The Clarion Call, available online Monday, Feb. 14, will feature Myers' story, written by student reporter Shannon Brady.