On Sept. 23, the Yorktown Democratic Committee (YDC) welcomed Mark Scotch on his 1,600-mile journey from Martha’s Vineyard to Plover, Wisconsin to raise awareness for living kidney donations. Mark Scotch, a kidney donor and marathon cyclist with NKDO.org made a stop on the Northern County Trail in Yorktown Heights. This journey is aptly named The Organ Trail.
Mark pointed out that 13 Americans die every day for lack of a kidney donor. 100,000 Americans are waiting for donors. “Mark’s journey on the Organ Trail is significant– every mile he rides celebrates his donation, showing that living kidney donors can do anything and showcases the need for kidney donation. If you’re in need of a kidney or want to be a donor, or a donor mentor, please reach out to NKDO.org.”
Leesa Thompson, our Cortlandt neighbor, and kidney recipient brought The Organ Trail event to the attention of the Yorktown Democratic Committee. Leesa said “On behalf of NKDO and NKR, I’m so delighted that we welcomed Mark, and his colleagues, Steve and Jeff on their journey. As a kidney recipient, I’m so grateful to donors everywhere for giving recipients the opportunity for a new lease on life.”The YDC encourages supporting the 37 million Americans affected by kidney disease and may have to wait 7-10 years for a kidney and may already be too sick or too late. We wish Mark success with his continuing journey on The Organ Trail to raise awareness.”
Yorktown Councilmember Vishnu Patel presented Scotch with a proclamation from the Town, and County Legislator Vedat Gashi presented a proclamation from County government, and State Senator Peter Harckham’s office also presented a state proclamation.
Others in attendance to support the efforts of NKDO.org, and Scotch’s bike ride included Town Councilwoman Alice Rocker, Diana Quast and Lanny Gilbert.
Mark Scotch departed from Martha’s Vineyard Hospital on Sept. 19 to ride his bicycle to his home in Wisconsin. Mark was joined by non-directed donor and Iron Man athlete Steve Wilson. Mark will be advocating for awareness of the need for living kidney donation, with particular emphasis on the conditions endured by dialysis patients as they await a transplant. Safe travels, Mark, and may the wind be at your back.
Unlike other organizations with substantial overhead expenses, NKDO is a relatively small nonprofit, and your contribution goes directly toward continued education and advocacy regarding living kidney donation. We achieve this via various channels including social media and web presence, mainstream media, industry expert videos with transplant leaders, and educational conferences.
Visit NKDO.org for more information.
