STATUS:
Waiting
I enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1991, and after training and graduating in Aviation Hydraulics at the top of my class, I was immediately assigned to Fighter Attack Squadron 132 - the Privateers. When I arrived at NAS, I was flown to Greece because the squadron was deployed in the Mediterranean for Operation Provide Comfort after Desert Storm. We spent eight months on the Aircraft Carrier USS Forrestal, and it was intimidating for a nineteen-year-old on a massive ship, knowing no one. I completed two more deployments to the Mediterranean during my four years of sea duty before reenlisting for three years and transferring to the Field Hydraulics Department. I was responsible for the hydraulic flight control components in the aircraft, and this is where I finished my military service.
After the Navy, I worked as a Parts Service Manager, then went into plumbing for a while before finding a career I wanted to excel in as a glass installer. I replaced windows in homes, businesses, and automobiles. After ten years, I decided to open my own automotive glass replacement business. I have been happily married to my wife for ten years, and we have a blended family of two daughters, two sons, and five grandchildren. They are all a very special part of my life; if I had known grandchildren were so much fun, I would have had them first!
Polycystic Kidney Disease runs in my family, affecting my grandmother, mother, and sister. Of course, I have concerns for my boys, but my wife has been a solid foundation for me as I go through this disease. She makes it easier for me to get more out of life so I can spend time with her and our family. Will you join us in our mission to find a kidney for David? Your support, whether through spreading the word on social media or considering becoming a donor, can make a profound impact on his life and the life of his family.
David has enlisted the help of a Veteran's organization called DOVE Transplant which is helping in his outreach to find his life-saving kidney donor. DOVE will assist all prospective donors throughout the process and make sure they do not incur any out-of-pocket expenses related to the evaluation or surgery.
A healthy person can live a normal life with one kidney and save this Veteran's life! Please click on the link below if you would like to learn more OR call (551) 233-1611.
David Bollenbach
Navy Veteran
