My Story – David Carberry

David Carberry lives in Hamburg, NY. He has blood type “AB” and is waiting for a kidney transplant.  

He shared his story with the Kidney Connection:

I grew up in Woodlawn/Blasdell in Hamburg, NY, went to Frontier High School and graduated in 1999. 

(Many of you also know me as David Colin. I changed to my mother’s last name after high school.) 

I went back to school several years ago and got my Medical Assistant degree to better myself and my wife. While working at South Buffalo Mercy in the ER, Sunset Bay Beach Club, and Showplace Music Theatre, I still find time to volunteer at my local fire department. 

I am the main source of income in our household as my wife is out on Social Security Disability for many health issues. I am active in my firehall as an EMT/Firefighter for Woodlawn Volunteer Fire Company for the past 27 years as a active life member, and also Hamburg Water Rescue.

Fourteen years ago, we found out that I have Polycystic Kidney Disease (it is genetic). In March, I was hospitalized because a cyst burst (me being me, I worked a 12-hour shift in South Buffalo Mercy Hospital and then I was seen) and admitted for 4 days. 

I went to the nephrologist (Kidney Doctor) and was told that I needed to be put on the kidney transplant list.  I was put on the transplant list on June 7th, 2026 and was active on the list in September of 2026.  I am patiently waiting for my much needed kidney. 

 

#saveafirefighter

#saveaemt