Who I am

My name is Joanne Kakoyiannis, and I have been happily married to my husband, Peter, for over 50 years. We are blessed with three children and two wonderful grandchildren. I am a retired college administrator living in Bucks County, Pennsylvania.

Unfortunately, because of some previous surgery, I have developed a condition that has severely damaged my kidneys. Because of my age and the length of time (5-8 years) required to wait for a deceased donor kidney, I have been informed that a living kidney donor is the only solution to my illness. Doctors tell me I need to seek a living donor for a new kidney right now. 

I am fortunate that I am not yet on dialysis and pray that a living donor will be found before I start this procedure.

I am rooted in my Christian faith and have been active in my church and its mission all my life. I met my husband and made lifelong friends through our Greek American community. I presently serve on the National Board of the Ladies Philoptochos Society – a 25,000-person organization that sponsors projects and fundraisers involving feeding the homeless, autism awareness, and other urgent social and humanitarian issues. 

As a resident of a small town in Bucks County, I have enjoyed being part of the local community and have assisted in planning and sponsoring many local events and activities.

My family is my greatest source of joy. I am fortunate to be the eldest of four children, growing up in Brooklyn, New York. My siblings have all been part of each other’s lives as we raised families in a great milieu of cousins and lifelong friends. Throughout my illness, my family and friends have given me the utmost support, for which I am so thankful. Now I hope that a miracle will happen, and a living donor will come forth to help me continue this wonderful life

Why I Need A Kidney

I suffer from Stage 5 Chronic Kidney Disease and may have to commence dialysis imminently as a stop gap measure. A kidney from a living donor is what I am hoping and praying for, and why I am reaching out to friends, family, community members and the caring public with my story. Family members are being evaluated, but there are various reasons they are likely not a match. Because of my age I have been informed that a living kidney donor is probably the only solution to my condition

A new kidney means a chance to continue my commitments to family, church, and community. A new kidney means I will see my young grandchildren grow into teenagers. I will be able to continue to assist my daughter and her husband in the care of their special needs child and be there for my 93-year-old aunt who looks to me for care and support.

I love life, and with the assistance of a living kidney donor, I can continue to be in it with all of you. 

Want to Help? Three ways.

  1. Learn about being a kidney donor here. You’ll be taken to University of Pennsylvania’s kidney donor intake site for more information. https://www.pennmedicine.org/for-patients-and-visitors/find-a-program-or-service/transplant-institute/living-donor-kidney-transplant

  2. Share Joanne's story by posting. The more people that hear, the better chances of finding a donor! “My [loved one/friend/neighbor] Joanne needs a kidney. If you’d like to learn more, here is a link to her story: www.helpingjoannefindakidney.com.”

  3. Sign up below to tell Joanne you’re cheering for her and so we can share updates.