Former Jets center Nick Mangold needs a kidney transplant, asks fans to see if they're a match
Jets center Nick Mangold looks on prior to a game against the Detroit Lions at MetLife Stadium on Sept. 28, 2014. Credit: Lee S. Weissman
Nick Mangold, a Jets center from 2006-16 and a member of their Ring of Honor, announced on Tuesday that he needs a kidney transplant from a donor with type-O blood.
Mangold, 41, wrote in a statement that in 2006 he was diagnosed with a genetic defect that has led to chronic kidney disease and that “after a rough summer” he has been undergoing dialysis.
“I always knew this day would come, but I thought I would have had more time,” he wrote. “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 community.”
Mangold asked anyone willing to find out whether they could be a donation match to go to https://columbiasurgery.org/kidney-transplant, click the link for donating a kidney and use Mangold’s full name, Nicholas Mangold, and his birthdate, Jan. 13, 1984.
“Most of all, I’m thankful for my family, who have been my rock every step of the way,” Mangold wrote. “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 very soon.”
Al Iannazzone covers the Jets for Newsday after spending nearly two decades on the NBA beat with Knicks and Nets.
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