Grandfather of 15 Fighting for His Life Appeals for Living Kidney Donor While Seeking Justice for Late Wife
Devoted grandfather Neil Palmer is fighting a battle on two fronts: a daily struggle for survival with renal failure and a deeply personal fight for justice following the tragic loss of his beloved wife, Mary Palmer, in late 2025. He is a retired bus driver and lifelong family man now dependent on dialysis three times a week while waiting for a life-saving kidney transplant.
Neil, who is a proud grandfather to fifteen grandchildren, spent decades serving his community as a bus driver before retiring. Today, the simple joys of life sustain him, watching football and cheering on Chelsea, tending to his garden, and cooking meals that bring his family together. But the life he once enjoyed changed dramatically after a series of devastating health challenges.
Neil’s health journey began in 2003 when he failed a routine medical while joining a bus company. The test revealed dangerously high blood pressure. With determination and careful management, Neil took medication and maintained stable health for many years.
In 2021, however, he was diagnosed with Graves’ disease. Following surgery to remove his thyroid in 2022, his kidney function declined sharply. Determined to delay dialysis for as long as possible, Neil made significant lifestyle changes and fought to protect his health. His resilience carried him until June 2025, when dialysis became unavoidable.
“My grandchildren mean the world to me, I want to be here to watch them grow up, to cook for them, to laugh with them, and to continue fighting for Mary’s memory.”
In late 2025, his wife Mary one of his strongest sources of support tragically passed away. Neil believes her death was the result of medical negligence, and he has vowed to pursue justice in her memory.
Now widowed, Neil is supported by a large family that includes five children, siblings, and his 91-year-old mother. However, despite the love surrounding him, the search for a suitable kidney donor has so far been unsuccessful. His late wife and one of his daughters were both tested but were not matches. Other family members are unable to donate due to health reasons or distance.
A living kidney donor could transform Neil’s life. Compared with dialysis, a transplant offers patients greater freedom, improved health, and the chance to spend more meaningful time with family. He is asking anyone who might consider becoming a living kidney donor to come forward and learn more about the process a decision that could save his life and allow him to continue advocating for his late wife.
