Local 1180 Member Searches for Kidney Donor to Save Her Son

Having just turned thirteen in November, Elias, the son of CWA Local 1180 member Margaret Manolis, has spent his entire life managing Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and endured thirteen surgeries in thirteen years. CKD is a progressive condition in which the kidneys gradually lose their ability to function and can, over time, lead to dangerous toxin buildup and serious complications — including kidney failure.

Doctors have now determined that Elias will need a kidney transplant, with his medical team strongly recommending a living donor due to his young age.

If you’d like to learn more about becoming a living donor or wish to be screened as a potential match for Elias, please fill out this form.

“I’ve had multiple surgeries to keep my kidneys from getting worse, but now I need a kidney transplant,” Elias said. “I’m still young, and a living kidney donor would change my entire life and help me be healthier.”

Margaret, an Administrative Coordinator for the New York City School Construction Authority, recalls Elias being immediately rushed for testing and then surgery on the day he was born

Thirteen years, thirteen surgeries, and countless medications later, “His kidneys are still not able to function the way they need to,” Margaret says.

Despite everything, Margaret describes Elias as a kind, compassionate, and determined kid.
At school, he proudly participates in the “Be a Buddy Club,” where he helps support classmates with autism. At home, he enjoys riding his bike, swimming, and playing video games with his younger brother. Margaret and the rest of their family work hard to let Elias enjoy being a kid as much as possible.

The family has been unable to find a match for Elias, and so are trying to widen their search nationally, including within our CWA family.

“We’re just hoping for one person,” Margaret says. “We only need one. There are so many success stories of strangers donating a kidney to help someone live a long, productive life without dialysis. It’s a beautiful thing. I wish I could do it myself.”

Click here to learn more about the donation process and how you can be screened as a potential match to help Elias.