DENVER -- The average time it takes for a patient to get a kidney transplant is almost four years, and thirteen people die each day while waiting for a life-saving kidney transplant, according to the National Kidney Foundation. Those statistics are not something the Moran family wants to happen.
Paul Moran has been in stage 4 kidney failure for ten years and had to turn to dialysis which he spends the majority of his week doing.
"It's not like going to a junkyard and getting a part for a used car," said Moran. “I lasted ten years at stage 4, and then my kidneys failed completely."
"I want him to live long because I need him and Vickie needs him, and she loves him. He’s a great dad."
"I wish for it. I hope it comes through," said Moran.
It’s that wishful thinking that keeps Paul Moran going. He is on a waiting list at the University of Colorado Hospital, but waiting wasn't enough for his wife Denise and step-daughter Vickie.
So on the side of their car, a plea for help. A letter to anyone that reads it.
"I took Vickie's picture, and I put it on there, and I made up the sign, and I put it on both cars. I said we are going to get you a kidney somehow, some way,” said Denise Moran.
They know the odds are against him.
"It's basically a lottery. Somebody out there has to die for you to get the kidney. You know? It's unfortunate," said Moran. "I've lived most of my life. I'm 70 years old. I hope I make it to 80."
Moran has a lot to live for in Colorado. He and his family left New Jersey in their rear view mirror to get a fresh start in retirement, but most of the time its spent at a dialysis center. Moran refuses to just rely on the machines at the center, so he and his family put their car in drive hoping a potential donor is out there.
"I advertise everywhere and anywhere I can. I love Paul, and I need him around," said Denise.
They put their pride aside, even posted an ad in the church newsletter. One woman got tested but wasn't a match.
"It was kind of hard because people are staring at you."
"It was good to hear I got results."
Glimmers of hope that keep him pressing the gas even though there is the reality:
"You reach a point in life where you realize that you know, you’re going to die. You're going to pass away from something," said Paul.
But if he has any say, it's not anytime soon.
Maybe a little luck will come from the sign on the car, for those new parts.
