Nick Mangold, former NFL center during his 11 seasons with the New York Jets. Now, he is in dire need of a kidney transplant. The 39-year-old athlete has been on dialysis for chronic kidney disease. This situation was due to an unrecognized congenital defect, found in 2006. Mangold recently opened up to supporters about his health issues, thanking them and asking for help from potential donors.
In a deeply personal tweet, Mangold admitted that he’d always anticipated coming through health challenges. He figured he’d have more time before getting to this juncture. He stated, “This isn’t an easy message to share, but I want to be open about what’s been happening with me and my health.”
Mangold’s story began when he was selected 29th overall in the first round of the 2006 NFL draft. Prior to that, he had a stellar career as a center at Ohio State. During his time with the Jets, he poured himself into anything and everything. His competitiveness and determination in overcoming that adversity turned him into a football community icon. As it turns out, that genetic defect had been the underlying cause of his chronic kidney disease all along. Now, with the clock ticking, he needs a kidney donor with type O blood.
Mangold went to work trying to locate a matching donor. He pointed anyone who wanted to help to the Kidney Transplant Program at NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center. He urged interested donors to see if they qualify by visiting the program’s website.
“I would be eternally thankful to anyone that would be willing to donate,” said Mangold. He shared heartfelt appreciation for his network of support. Most of all I want to thank my family for being my support system through the whole journey,” he recounted. These circumstances have really brought to light how lucky I am. I’m lucky to have the most incredible family, friends, and community rallying for me.
Though everything against him, Mangold is hopeful for his future. As difficult as this period has been, I remain hopeful and optimistic about our future and what lies ahead,” he added. Here’s hoping for happier days ahead and a quick return to full strength. Looking forward to seeing all of you at MetLife Stadium & The Shoe very soon.”
You can view a high-res version of this photo of Mangold from 1/29/20 here. He recorded it during Super Bowl LIV in Miami, Fla., in collaboration with SiriusXM. Photo by Cindy Ord/Getty Images for SiriusXM
Word is getting out fast in both the NY Jets and Ohio State communities. Fans and supporters have been mobilizing around Mangold as well, providing their support through this rough patch. His plea for assistance highlights the need for comfort and companionship as one weathers the storm of personal tragedy.
