Scott MacIntyre, 29, has placed 8th in the 2009 season of American Idol. He is almost completely blind since birth and battled kidney disease as a teenager. At the age of 22, he had a kidney transplant. However, recent visit to the doctors revealed he needs another transplant.
Scott was dubbed as the only blind singer to get a spot in the hit talent show, American Idol. As a teenager, he battled kidney disease and seven years ago, he had a life-saving kidney transplant. However, doctors revealed that he needs another transplant in the next six months to curb complications and avoid the need for dialysis. He is currently on the waiting list for a kidney donor but the average waiting time is from three to five years. Furthermore, the kidney transplant necessitates him to get it from a living donor.
Scott admitted that the lifesaving kidney transplant which was donated by a family friend paved way for him to join the contest, marry his wife and perform his passion for music.
Amidst his health crisis, Scott still manages to perform to his highest capabilities. In fact, he just released his album "Lighthouse". The last song in the album entitled, "I am hope" was chosen as the anthem of organ donation and will be featured at upcoming events for the National Kidney Foundation Walks in New York City, Los Angeles, Boston and Miami.
He performed his songs in front of an enthusiastic crowd of more than 8,000 in New York City Foley Square. The event is geared towards organ donation knowledge and awareness of kidney disease. His concert kick started the National Kidney Foundation's 2014 New York City Walk. He has become a spokesperson of organ donation and to increase awareness on this health condition.
Potential donors can find out if they are a candidate to give MacIntyre a kidney by calling Vanderbilt Hospital at (615) 936-0695, ext. 3.