For almost two decades, Jason Loree has been focused on running Boardman Township. Now, his focus is more personal. 

Loree has been diagnosed with autosomal dominant polycystic disease, a genetic disorder where cysts form on the kidneys.

Loree was 25 years old when he got the diagnosis. Now at 42, he has gone through open heart surgery, caused by complications from the disease, and his kidneys are working at just twenty percent

"I've had to apply for disability, and I'm trying to balance what I can do physically and then what I need to get done for the township to the point where it was a concern that I wouldn't be able to keep that up," Loree said, adding "You'll get fatigue, pain, nausea, there are underlying intestinal issues."

Loree is type B positive. He is now on the transplant list at the Cleveland Clinic, but finding a donor can be complex process.
 

Potential donors must undergo thorough testing to ensure compatibility with a recipient. Loree said it could take two to six years before getting a kidney.

"Some people just get a random donation. Others, it's a friend or a family member, but you have to go through some steps," 

As he waits for a donor Loree is staying hopeful and spending more time with his family, including his seven year old daughter, whom he and his wife adopted to avoid passing on the disease.

He is also keeping his sense of humor, such as asking if anyone has seen a kidney lying around on Facebook.

Loree told 21 News that he is currently waiting on receiving disability paperwork which could come in January or March.