Former Jets C Nick Mangold asks fans for kidney donation to address chronic disease

The Jets and Ohio State great says he was diagnosed with a birth defect in 2006 that led to him needing a kidney.

MIAMI GARDENS, FL - NOVEMBER 06: New York Jets Center Nick Mangold on the sidelines during the NFL football game between the New York Jets and the Miami Dolphins on November 6, 2016, at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, FL. (Photo by Doug Murray/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
Nick Mangold needs a kidney. (Photo by Doug Murray/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

Former New York Jets center Nick Mangold needs help from a fan or some other good samaritan.

The 41-year-old posted a statement on social media Tuesday revealing that he was diagnosed in 2006 with a birth defect that led to a chronic kidney disease, leaving him in need of a kidney donation. He said a "rough summer" has left him on dialysis and that none of his family are able to donate.

The statement directs fans with type O blood to a webpage from Columbia's surgery department and signal their interest, specifically citing his name and Jan. 13, 1984 birthdate.

Mangold played his entire 11-year career with the Jets, earning seven Pro Bowl nods and a spot on the team's ring of honor. Before that, he was an All-American at Ohio State and a freshman on the program's 2002 national championship team. He remains a popular figure for both fanbases, and last played in the NFL in 2016.

The full statement, addressed to both the Jets and Ohio State communities:

To my NY Jets & Ohio State Buckeye communities,

This isn't an easy message to share, but I want to be open about what's been happening with me and my health.

In 2006, I was diagnosed with a genetic defect that has led to chronic kidney disease. After a rough summer, I'm undergoing dialysis as we look for a kidney transplant. I always knew this day would come, but I thought I would have had more time.

Unfortunately, I do not have any family able to donate at this time, so this is why I'm reaching out to you, our NY Jets and Ohio State communities. I am in need of a kidney donor with type O blood. If you are willing to find out if you could be a match and donate a kidney to me please go to this site https://columbiasurgery.org/kidney-transplant and click the link to indicate I WANT TO DONATE MY KIDNEY. Use my full name, Nicholas Mangold, and my birthday, 1/13/1984. I am deeply grateful to anyone that would consider donating.

Most of all, I'm thankful for my family, who have been my rock every step of the way. This situation has reminded me how lucky I am to have such an amazing family, friends, and community behind me.

While this has been a tough stretch, I'm staying positive and focused on the path ahead. I'm looking forward to better days and getting back to full strength soon. I'll see you all at MetLife Stadium & The Shoe very soon.

With Gratitude, Nick Mangold

Category: General Sports