INDIANAPOLIS — Butler University's Director of External Affairs is in need of a kidney, and he's turned to social media to find one.
This past weekend, Michael Kaltenmark tweeted this message: "I need a kidney. Could be yours, someone you know, or even a complete stranger. I just need a kidney."
Among his other duties, Michael Kaltenmark is the man who handles Butler Blue, the school's English bulldog mascot.
On Saturday, Kaltenmark and Blue Three attended an event at Hinkle Fieldhouse where many of the guests already knew about his transplant needs.
"I have two brothers, they have already started the process," said Kaltenmark. "But my doctors have told me to cast a wide net. Put the word out. We want to help you find the best match you can. You've got to ask as many people as possible."
The waiting list for a kidney could be four to seven years and Kaltenmark doesn't necessarily have that much time.
That's why he's casting the wide net on social media.
"I put the word out and thought a handful would respond. Hundreds of people have responded and shared. They've already signed up and are willing to help, that's amazing," said Kaltenmark.
Indiana University Health has a website where you can find out about being an organ donor.
IU will do the testing for you.
If you qualify, you might be able to help Michael or another person waiting for a transplant.
Kaltenmark has switched to a vegan diet to assist his compromised kidneys.
And he says Blue Three has been very supportive during this trying time.
