Future Uncertain for Province Couple Discovering Kidney via Social Media

Dawn Calamari, a 69-year-old resident of Province, has faced a daunting journey over the past five months while searching for a kidney for her ailing husband, 72-year-old Alex Calamari. In a moment of desperation, she turned to social media, and in February, a potential donor emerged.

However, complications arose.

The woman willing to donate has sadly had to withdraw due to her own health issues, as reported on Saturday. Alex’s kidneys had failed following a severe reaction to antibiotics that led to sepsis after his heart surgery.

Dawn recounted to InMaricopa how close she came to losing her husband during his recent hospitalization. Doctors warned her that if they had waited just 90 more minutes, Alex might not have survived. His insistence on resting at home almost turned fatal, making their situation even more critical.

Despite this setback, Dawn expresses gratitude that the would-be donor made it as far as she did, empathizing with her recent health challenges. “It’s been horrible,” she said, recognizing the effort the woman put into the process.

Neither of their children can donate due to health complications, heightening the urgency for Dawn. A recent visit to see them ended with Alex catching a virus, a stark reminder of his frailty.

While his condition is not immediately life-threatening, Dawn is acutely aware that another illness could be lethal. She highlighted Alex’s philosophy of valuing quality of life over longevity, asserting that he would never consent to life support.

In her continued search for a donor, Dawn has again reached out on the social platform Nextdoor, inquiring if anyone would be willing to help. She acknowledges the gravity of her request.

“I’m just one voice in a crowd, but I’m not a crowd,” Dawn stated in her appeal to the Maricopa community, urging everyone to consider organ donation.

“It’s so easy—just sign a card or consider testing for living donation. Perhaps you could be the one to change a life dramatically.”

Dawn also referenced State Route 347, notorious for being one of the most hazardous roads in the Western U.S. She noted that drivers face significant risks daily as they commute to and from Phoenix.

“If you regularly navigate that route, you have a chance to make a profound difference in someone’s life,” she urged fellow Maricopa residents.

Dawn reassured potential donors that they can withdraw from the process anonymously. Though the loss of her husband’s potential donor is disheartening, she encourages others to not shy away from considering donation if they have any doubts.