HURLEYVILLE — Ever since he was young, Jim Kaufman, 57, has always had kidney problems, but doctors could never figure out what was wrong.

That was until a few weeks ago when he was diagnosed with Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS).

When not treated, FSGS can lead to devastating kidney failure. Doctors have told Kaufman that his condition is too far gone, and if he does not have a kidney transplant within two months, his quality of life will seriously decline.

Kaufman said his kidneys are currently functioning at seven percent and are rapidly getting worse.

When Miranda Behan, Hurleyville Fire Department President, heard that her friend and fellow firefighter was seriously ill and needed a kidney transplant, she said she had to help.

Immediately she drafted a letter about Kaufman's condition and posted it on social media to plead for help.

"We took an oath to help our fellow brothers, sisters, and neighbors. It's his turn; we need to help him," said Behan.

Kaufman is a 30-year veteran firefighter who has been the Past Chief of the Hurleyville Fire Department and is the current Chaplin for Hurleyville and Woodbourne Fire Departments.

The posted letter said that Kaufman has been there for others in emergencies and non-emergencies, and has dedicated his life in service to others.

Behan said several folks have come forward since her letter and vowed to get tested to see if they are a match with Kaufman.

Behan, who is also facing health challenges, said she needs first to take care of Kaufman.

Those who were not a match have informed Behan that they are finding other ways to help and are looking to hold a fundraiser in honor of Kaufman to help pay for his medical expenses once he finds a kidney.

Kaufman is no stranger to challenges; he once weighed 300 pounds, and doctors told him then that he had to get his diabetes under control.

Kaufman said he didn't want to end up like his father, who passed away at a young age, so he got to work and dedicated his life to fitness and getting healthy.

Since his lifestyle change, Kaufman has lost all of his extra weight and took up competitive bodybuilding, winning the NPC Greater NY Championship for bodybuilding four times.

Kaufman said his wife, Mariah, who also took up competitive bodybuilding, is obviously concerned over his diagnosis and was tested to see if she was matched. Unfortunately, she is not.

Since Behan's social media post, Kaufman said he is overwhelmed with the support he has received.

"I feel so blessed [and] it's just amazing. The support that I'm getting, it definitely keeps me going, knowing the support and prayers are out there. It just lifts my spirits," said Kaufman.

He said his mindset has always been that of a warrior, and he does what has to be done. But in this battle to save his life, he says he cannot do it alone.

Kaufman added, "I don't want my story to end."

If you want to help, call Miranda Behan at (845) 434-3908 or (845) 701-9292.