This July, Gordy and I will celebrate our 36th wedding anniversary. He has had many health obstacles along those years and I am proud of him for being so STRONG! You see, when we met at age 21, Gordy had already been diagnosed with Crohn's disease, an autoimmune condition that attacks both your small and large intestine. Over the years, he continually developed kidney stones, something very common among Crohn's patients. We both knew one day his kidneys would fail him :(
Despite all this, he stayed strong, he persevered and he became a very successful businessman. He blessed me with 2 beautiful children, inside and out, which I am so grateful for. He is kind and caring and appreciative of me! I love him dearly, he is my best, best friend :)
- Sharon Pohn
I think you can't possibly understand the true meaning of a good parent until you become a parent yourself. That's when you realize all the sacrifice, love and work that goes into raising a family. Now, reflecting back over my childhood I feel as if my Dad was the ultimate father. Sometimes what I remember is him being sick a lot. And him working a lot. Now, with two young children of my own...what I think of when I think of my dad, is a man who worked his whole life...through sickness never giving up to provide a great life for his family. And that's what I had....a great childhood. Things have never been easy for my dad, he has had to struggle his whole life. But he did it for his family. Now, with my own children - that's what I want for them. A stable, happy home with no worries. That's what my dad passed onto me and that's what my kids will have. That's what his grandkids will have. I owe a lot to my dad, and for that I am being the best mom I can possibly be to his Grandkids. I love him so much and pray every single day that he gets a kidney so that my kids can grow up to know him like I do. He deserves it.
- Jamie Pohn Rzeznik
My Dad is definitely my hero. I have learned so much from him and have him to thank for becoming the man I am today. From my work ethic, to my passion about sports, I get it all from him! I hope someone can help improve his life with a new kidney, God Bless!
- Brandon Pohn
Do I have something to say about my brother? Wow! Do I! There is no way to contain all I have to say into this small box. So, I will speak about Gordy over time, here, with all of you. It can be like a trip in time we take together.
My brother has taught me so much about strength. This is a lesson that my mother and father taught us, and now, unfortunately, my brother is carrying the torch as well.
Daily, he continues to be an incredible inspiration to me. I am amazed at how he endures, overcomes, and prevails over incredibly painful physical challenges. He never gives up. He has such stamina...ever since he has been young, illness has plagued him, and yet he faces each battle anew. He does so without complaint, and with great self-determination. He simply looks at me each time a new crisis arises and says, "Sister, I'll never give up." I just marvel and this brother of mine, and wish that I could have half the fortitude and strength that he has.
He really deserves this kidney. I wanted so badly to give it to him. When they would not accept me as a donor because of various medical conditions, I was devastated. I want to help Gordy so badly. I want my brother to finally live his life out of this daily pain he faces. He is so heroic. I hope someone out there is listening and hears the call.
- Julie Pohn-Noosbond
I just want you, Gordy, to know that you are an inspiration to me, as I have severe kidney issues as well, and my road is laying ahead of me. I have been friends with you since being in high school together, and I admire and hope to emulate your courage and passion. I hope and pray that you receive your kidney and that you live a long and healthy life.
- Nancie Tarnowski