HIGHLAND, Ohio — Steven and Diana Stuckey never thought they would be in this position, but now they’re reaching out to the community for help. After moving from Indiana to Southern Ohio in 2021 for their retirement, the couple settled into Highland County, where they hoped would be their forever home.
Everything changed in early 2023 when Diana began experiencing extreme fatigue. In November, she learned her kidney function had dropped significantly. By February 2024, she was diagnosed with IgA nephropathy, or Berger’s disease, a rare kidney condition. Over the next few months, her health fluctuated as her kidney function dropped to dangerous levels. Though she saw some improvement without dialysis, her numbers have recently worsened, leaving her in need of a kidney transplant.

“The OSU Medical Center suggested we try to find a living donor,” Steven explained. “A living donor would make it so once we found one, she could have a transplant in a year, maybe less. If we wait for the transplant list, it could be up to five years.”
Diana’s blood type is O+, meaning any potential donor must be compatible. Steven, who is wheelchair-bound due to Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia, has relied on Diana as his caregiver for years. Now, their daughter Kristie has stepped in to help both parents during this difficult time.

“All I know is her blood type is O+ and that has to be a match,” Steven shared. “The process will take 8-10 weeks for Diana to be on an 8-pound restriction.”
The Stuckeys hope that sharing their story will inspire someone to become a living kidney donor and help give Diana a second chance. For more information, Steven suggests contacting the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center or their Facebook page, Diana Stuckey Needs a Kidney.
“We have never been in this position before where we need to ask for help,” Steven said. “We’re grateful for any support—whether it’s a prayer, sharing our story, or considering becoming a donor.”
EDITOR’S NOTE: The story has been corrected to reflect that the family lives in Highland County and not Ross.