Terrence “Terry” Beale has spent his life serving others. Today, he is fighting for his own life and refusing to give up.
Terry served in the United States Marine Corps from 1990 to 1993, including active combat duty during Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Iraq. Like many veterans, his time in service exposed him to harsh and hazardous conditions that would later take a serious toll on his health.
From an early age, Terry knew he wanted to be a Marine. Following in the footsteps of his father and brothers, he committed himself to being a soldier, an identity he continues to take pride in today.
After returning home, Terry built careers in radio and the service industry. He also faced and overcame personal challenges, including substance dependence, eventually dedicating himself to helping others as an admissions coordinator for a recovery helpline.
But years after his military service, Terry began experiencing serious health issues—chronic illness, kidney complications, and repeated medical procedures. Over time his condition worsened significantly.
Today, Terry lives in Florida, where he receives ongoing medical care for multiple conditions linked to toxic exposure during his military service. He has undergone extensive surgeries, including the removal of both kidneys.
Without functioning kidneys, Terry now depends on dialysis treatments several times a week to survive.
Despite everything his body has endured, his spirit remains strong.
Terry’s life today is defined not only by his medical challenges, but by his determination to keep moving forward. Whether participating in community events, mentoring fellow veterans, or working toward his dream of creating a retreat for struggling veterans, he continues to find purpose in serving others.
But his greatest need now is clear: Terry is waiting for a life-saving kidney transplant.
Like many patients on the national transplant list, he could face a wait of five years or more for a deceased donor kidney—time he may not have. A living donor could dramatically shorten his wait and give him a second chance at life.
Living kidney donation offers hope not just for Terry, but for thousands of others facing kidney failure. One healthy kidney can sustain a full, active life. For someone like Terry, it can mean everything.
Terry has spent his life fighting—for his country, for his recovery, and now for his future. With the support of others, he doesn’t have to fight alone.
