Kidney4Kenny
Kenny needs a kidney. Could you be the match to save his life?
Seeking Living Donor: A Kidney for Kenny!
One Impactful Gift, One Big Life.
Kenny is a father, grandfather, husband, brother, and friend who brings laughter and love to everyone he meets. Whether he's cheering on his favorite sports teams, delivering a perfectly timed dad joke, or lending a hand when someone needs it, Kenny has always shown up for the people in his life.
Now, he’s facing the biggest challenge yet: he needs a kidney transplant from a living donor—urgently.
After bravely battling cancer, Kenny spent the last several years managing chronic kidney disease. Recently, doctors discovered the underlying cause: Alport Syndrome, a rare genetic condition that damages the kidneys and, over time, leads to kidney failure. Because of this progressive disease, his kidney function has now declined to the point where a transplant is critical.
While dialysis may help temporarily, Kenny’s best chance at a long, healthy future is a transplant before dialysis begins. That’s where you—or someone you know—might be able to help.
We’re searching for someone willing to consider living kidney donation and give Kenny the greatest gift of all: a second chance at life. His immediate family was first in line, but because of the same genetic condition and other medical factors, they are unable to donate — making the kindness of others all the more meaningful.
You don’t need to be a match to help. You can:
Get tested to see if you’re a match
Share Kenny’s story with your network
Learn more about the process of living donation
Kenny has always been the one people count on. Now we’re hoping someone out there can be the one he can count on.
Could it be you?
The first step is to see if you're a match. Click below to find out more!
While we are urgently searching for a living kidney donor to save our dad’s life, this campaign is about something even bigger—raising awareness about the critical need for living organ donors everywhere. Thousands of people across the country are waiting for a kidney, and the truth is that living donor transplants offer the best possible outcomes for recipients: shorter wait times, better long-term health, and fewer complications. Living donation isn’t just a gift—it’s a powerful, lifesaving act of kindness that can ripple through entire families and communities. Even if you’re not a match for our dad, you could be a match for someone else. Through paired donation or simply spreading the word, you have the power to change a life. Our hope is that Kenny’s story inspires others to learn more, consider getting tested, and help shine a light on this beautiful form of giving.
Want to help Kenny? Visit UCHealth to apply to donate today!
Kenny’s birthday was made extra special with a visit from his dear friend Keith — a friendship that has spanned more than 50 years! The two spent the day reminiscing, laughing, and cherishing the gift of time together. The celebration wrapped up with a wonderful dinner at Mizuna, but it was the heartwarming reconnection with a lifelong friend that truly filled Kenny’s cup. Happy Birthday, Kenny! 🎂✨
Kenny and his wife Kris recently traveled to Los Angeles for a truly special occasion — their youngest son, Trey, premiered his short film at the LA Shorts Film Festival! This exciting milestone marks a big step forward in Trey's pursuit of his dream career in the film industry, and his parents couldn’t be more proud.
The weekend was filled with celebration, family time, and even a bit of adventure — Kenny and Kris tried out the futuristic, driverless ride-sharing service Waymo while exploring the city. It was a fun and memorable trip, and a beautiful reminder of all the moments worth fighting for on Kenny’s journey to better health.
Kenny made time for what really matters — a good old-fashioned ice cream date with his grandkids! Between laughter, sticky fingers, and extra sprinkles, there was no shortage of smiles. Moments like these are why we fight so hard for his health and a second chance through kidney donation. He’s not just a hero in our eyes — he’s a grandpa worth every scoop. 💛 #Kidney4Kenny #GrandpaGoals #MoreMomentsLikeThis
Kenny had a dialysis fistula put in his arm on May 15. The procedure went well and luckily he had some "stuffies" from his grandkids to help ensure a comfortable and speedy recovery. Unfortunately, this is one step closer to dialysis which means its more urgent to find a living donor ASAP.
Ken "Kenny" Kochevar is a proud second-generation Colorado native whose roots run deep in Colorado soil. A graduate of both Broomfield High School and Colorado State University, Ken has always carried a strong sense of community and loyalty—whether cheering on his beloved Broncos and Nuggets, supporting his family, or giving back through coaching and mentorship.
Ken’s love of sports started early. He played basketball, football and baseball early in his youth up throughout his high school years, learning the value of teamwork, discipline, and grit—values he later passed on as a volunteer youth basketball and T-ball coach. Over the years, Ken coached countless young athletes, earning the title of Coach of the Year, but more importantly, earning their lifelong respect and gratitude.
A tireless worker and natural leader, Ken built his career in construction management, where he was honored with a life-saving award from the Colorado Contractors Association for stepping in during a moment of crisis and saving someone’s life. Whether it’s at work, on the court, or in his personal life, Ken has always shown up with humility, integrity, and heart.
Above all, Ken is a devoted family man. He’s a loving father and an incredible grandfather whose presence is a light in the lives of his three grandkids. Whether he’s building blanket forts or engineering an imaginary space station, playing catch, or attending ballet recitals, Ken brings joy, imagination, and laughter to every moment.
Now, after years of giving to others, Ken needs help. He’s facing kidney failure and is searching for a living donor who can give him a second chance at life. His fight is a reminder that even the strongest people sometimes need support—and that community, love, and generosity can save lives.