Twenty-seven-year-old Emmett Smith has been waiting for a new kidney for two years. It's expected that he may have to wait up to three more years to find a donor.
"We had already talked with all my family members and all my friends and stuff," said Smith who suffers from IgA nephropathy.
Being a father to a 9-month-old baby girl, Smith said that he's determined to get better.
"When I feel sick like this I just can't really be there for her even though I have to be," said Smith.
So, Smith and his wife, Esther, brainstormed ideas to help find a living donor.
"This is what popped into our mind bus ads," said Smith.
When Smith's wife called Metro about the idea, she was put in touch with advertising firm Titan Seattle.
Titan Seattle came up with the campaign "My Daddy Needs a Kidney" campaign, which features Smith and Arianna Grace on a banner.
The ads are running on five buses in Seattle and on the Eastside.
So far Smith says about 30 people have called in to inquire about donating from the ads. A number is listed so potential donors could be tested to see if they are a match for Emmett.
If a donor is found, Smith's insurance company will pay for the donor's medical expenses connected to the procedure.
Pamela Quadros said the ads were supposed to run for four weeks, but says they will likely be extended, adding there's "no rush" to take them down.
"Even if I don’t receive a kidney from all of this, I would hope that its raised some awareness and maybe somebody else has received a kidney too," said Smith.
If you're interested in donating call, 206-598-3627. Find out more about Emmett Smith at http://www.donate4emmett.org/.
KIRO
