Former NFL star asks fans for kidney donation: 'I want to be open'
Former NFL star Nick Mangold is asking the public for help.
The retired New York Jets center, who previously played for Ohio State, took to social media on Tuesday to ask fans for assistance in finding a kidney donor as he battles chronic kidney disease.
"This isn't an easy message to share, but I want to be open about what's been happening with me and my health," Mangold wrote in a statement addressed to "my NY Jets and Ohio State Buckeye communities."
Mangold said he was diagnosed with a genetic defect in 2006 "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," he wrote.
He said that his family is unable to donate "at this time," adding, "This is why I'm reaching out to you, our NY Jets and Ohio State communities."
Mangold wrote that he is in need of a kidney donor with type O blood and asked potential donors to "find out if you could be a match" through the Kidney Transplant Program at NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center, directing those interested in helping to the program's website.
"I am deeply grateful to anyone that would consider donating," he wrote. "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."
Mangold closed his statement by offering fans a glimpse of hope.
"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," he wrote, referencing the home of the New York Jets and Ohio State football, respectively.
Mangold was drafted 29th overall in the first round of the 2006 NFL draft, having boosted his profile as a center at Ohio State.
As a pro, Mangold logged seven Pro Bowl selections in 11 seasons before retiring from football in 2018.
ABC News has reached out to a representative for Mangold for comment.
