In Fort Worth, Texas, firefighter Todd Brook is spending his final days surrounded by family, yet his thoughts remain focused on saving his wife, Jennifer. Todd, who is in the last stages of pancreatic cancer, has a final wish: to find a kidney donor for Jennifer, who suffers from polycystic kidney disease.

Jennifer Brook, reflecting on her husband’s determination, said, “He’s still fighting. This was what he wanted.” Despite his inability to speak or open his eyes, Todd communicates his wishes through small gestures, like squeezing a hand.

Jennifer was diagnosed with polycystic kidney disease years before Todd’s cancer diagnosis. While Todd hoped to be her donor, his illness makes that impossible. Jennifer remains hopeful, saying, “I’m optimistic that God will find me a kidney.” Her kidney function is currently at 22%, and she will be eligible for a transplant at 20%.

Raising Awareness for Living Donations

Jennifer is one of approximately 90,000 people in the U.S. waiting for a kidney transplant. Living donations account for only 20-25% of kidney transplants, with deceased donor waits ranging from three to seven years. Todd’s wish is to raise awareness for living kidney donations, encouraging others to consider becoming donors through programs like the Living-Donor Transplant program at UT Southwestern in Dallas.

Craig Trojacek, a friend and fellow firefighter, expressed the depth of Todd’s love for Jennifer, saying, “Anybody who’s ever been in love, they know what they would give for that other person.” He hopes Todd’s story will inspire others to appreciate life and consider organ donation.

Jennifer, supported by prayers and faith, holds onto hope for both her and Todd’s futures. “I still believe that God could heal him right now,” she said, acknowledging that his illness might be linked to his 30-year firefighting career. Todd’s life of service continues as he hopes to inspire others to save lives through organ donation.

Original reporting: 12News / KPNX (Phoenix) — read the source article.