Firefighter Gets Second Chance with New Kidney | Toledo News

A firefighter’s 31st birthday became his second chance at life after a heroic kidney transplant—thanks to an altruistic donor and a community that rallied around him. Diagnosed with Stage 5 kidney failure in 2025 and on nightly dialysis, Paul Makulinski’s journey took a turn when his sister couldn’t donate due to health issues. Enter Alex, a stranger who stepped in, enabling a paired kidney exchange that brought a Wisconsin donor into the picture. Paul’s firehouse crew, family, and supporters organized fundraisers and prayers, helping him through the toughest days. Now recovering with side effects but rising in strength, he’s on track to return to duty by mid-August. He’s using his story to urge others to become organ donors and get regular check-ups—because catching problems early can save lives. And he’s deeply grateful, even to the donor he’ll never meet. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/b804458012a4ef2d