08/03/2026
Most of us will never be in a position to save someone's life quite this directly.
Grace Bender, one of Rochester Hills’ own and a graduate of Stoney Creek High School, is living with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD), a genetic condition that gradually causes the kidneys to lose function. Her kidney function has declined to 16%, and she was added to the kidney transplant waiting list in February 2026. Now, she’s hoping to find a living donor.
Why a living donor? Because living donor kidneys often last longer and can give Grace her best chance at a healthier future.
Her ideal match is someone with O-positive (O+) blood, but the first step is simply learning whether you're eligible. Many living kidney donors go on to live healthy, normal lives with one kidney, and the evaluation process is designed to answer your questions and make sure donation is safe for you. You can find the questionnaire at https://www.uchealth.com/en/treatments-and-procedures/living-kidney-donation.
Even if donation isn't an option, you can still make a difference by sharing Grace's story. The more people who see it, the greater the chance it reaches the person who can help.
If you'd like to learn more or see whether you might be a match, visit gracesnewbean.wordpress.com.
Sometimes helping our neighbors starts with something as simple as sharing a post. Today, it could help save a life. 💚
