Connecticut Fire Captain Seeks Kidney to Return to Duty

The firefighter who dove into the Thames River to save a boater's life in 2023 now needs someone to save his.

Captain Donald "DJ" Pavasaris has spent over a decade serving Kensington Fire Rescue in Berlin, Connecticut. A year and a half ago, doctors diagnosed the man in his 40s with kidney disease, forcing him to step back from active firefighting into an administrative role.

"Nobody at my age really goes through this, so I felt extremely alone," Pavasaris said. Despite the diagnosis, he continues training the next generation of firefighters while undergoing dialysis and staying physically fit.

The diagnosis came as a shock to someone dedicated to saving others. Pavasaris now faces a five to seven year wait for a deceased donor kidney, but a living donor could cut that time down to just months.

His fellow firefighters launched a social media campaign to find that living donor. Lt. Patrick Buckley, who works alongside Pavasaris, hopes the community will rally around someone who's always been there for them.

"He's very good at what he does," Buckley said. "We want to get it out there. Share it as much as possible."

Why This Inspires

Pavasaris represents the thousands of everyday heroes who show up for their communities without fanfare. His 2023 river rescue happened while he was off duty, proving his commitment goes beyond the uniform.

Now his colleagues are determined to help him return to the work that defines him. The department's social media push shows how communities can mobilize when one of their own needs help.

Pavasaris remains hopeful someone will be a match. "If everything goes good, I will be soon," he said. "Time will tell."

Anyone interested in becoming a donor can call Hartford Hospital at 860-696-2021 or visit their website to learn more about the donation process.