News Summary
Greg Miller, a retired oceanographer from Chattanooga, is seeking a live kidney donor to combat his rapidly declining health due to kidney failure. After an impressive career at the US Geological Survey, his health has significantly deteriorated over the past few years. Despite initial setbacks concerning transplant eligibility, Miller remains hopeful and is appealing to the public for an altruistic donor, highlighting the community’s role in addressing the increasing demand for organ donations during National Kidney Month.
Chattanooga: Former Oceanographer in Urgent Need of Kidney Donor
After a remarkable 37-year career with the US Geological Survey, during which he traveled to all seven continents, Greg Miller is now facing a serious health challenge—kidney failure. At 73 years old, Miller has been advised to seek a live kidney donor to increase his chances of receiving a transplant.
Miller’s health has significantly deteriorated over the past few years. In February 2021, he still had 70% kidney function, but by July 2021, this number plummeted to 29%. While doctors have yet to determine the underlying cause of his kidney failure, Miller experienced a significant health event when he was stung by yellow jackets shortly before his condition worsened.
Initially, Miller faced a setback when doctors considered him too old for a transplant. This diagnosis prompted his wife, Gloria, to investigate other options. They found a case of a 73-year-old ER doctor who successfully received a kidney transplant, encouraging them to look into alternative facilities for care.
Search for Transplant Options
The Millers first contacted Vanderbilt University, hoping to secure a transplant appointment. Unfortunately, they faced a lengthy waiting period of over six months. They later reached out to the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, where they quickly arranged for Miller to undergo testing. By November 2024, he was accepted onto the transplant list at Mayo, followed by a similar approval from Vanderbilt in December 2024.
Miller’s Type O blood makes him a candidate for living donations, which are more advantageous for individuals in his position. However, family members who might have been potential donors are unavailable. His 97-year-old father is not a candidate for donation, his oldest son cannot donate because he previously gave a kidney to his wife, and his youngest son is unable to donate due to health complications. Though many friends have expressed willingness to help, several have been disqualified based on their medical history.
Living Donation and Empathy
Miller is now appealing to the public for an altruistic living donor. Living donors can participate in paired donation programs, offering their kidneys to recipients who have incompatible donors. Research indicates that living donors may possess a larger right amygdala, suggesting a potentially heightened capacity for empathy—an important aspect when considering organ donation.
April is recognized as National Kidney Month, which aims to raise awareness regarding the increasing demand and shortage of donor organs. Currently, approximately 20 individuals die each day while waiting for transplants. The increasing urgency for donations is highlighted by Miller’s situation, as he prepares to navigate the challenges of his health condition.
Financial Aspects of Donation
For those considering being a living donor, financial incentives exist. Donors may receive reimbursement for expenses related to travel, medical care, and lost wages during the recovery process. Furthermore, all medical expenses incurred during the donation process are typically covered by the recipient’s insurance, alleviating financial concerns for potential donors.
A Community Appeal
Miller’s desire for a kidney transplant has become a rallying point for those in his community. His commitment to volunteering and leadership roles, such as serving as president of the Performing Arts League of Chattanooga and working with organizations like Habitat for Humanity and Master Gardeners, has endeared him to many. He even plays an active role in his local church, reflecting his community spirit and dedication.
As Miller continues his quest for a donor, he remains hopeful that someone in the community will step forward to assist him in overcoming this difficult health challenge. His story emphasizes the pressing need for organ donors and the impact that living donation can have on the lives of those suffering from kidney failure.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Chattanoogan: 73 In Need Of A Kidney
- Wikipedia: Kidney transplantation
- Tennessean: Denys-Drash Syndrome Kidney Transplant
- Google Search: Kidney donation
- Local 3 News: Update on Toddler’s Organ Donation
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Organ transplant
- News Channel 9: Daughter Donates Kidney
- Google News: Organ donation news
Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
The CHATTANOOGA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREChattanooga.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chattanooga, Hamilton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Riverbend Festival, Chattanooga Oktoberfest, and Moon River Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Chattanooga, plus leading businesses in manufacturing, insurance, and utilities that power the local economy such as Volkswagen Chattanooga, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, and EPB. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
