A well-known Norwalk man is in desperate need of a kidney.

Al "Flip" Palumbo is Norwalk's assistant tax collector. The 65-year-old has given 35 years of his life to the job. Palumbo found out recently that, as a diabetic, he is now in kidney failure.

"It's been a long process constantly being checked, constantly checking my blood levels for different things," says Palumbo.

Palumbo is one of more than 100,000 people who are currently on the national transplant waiting list, and time is important. He's trying to get the word out everywhere he goes.

Palumbo is a fighter. His love of music has gotten him through cancer and a heart attack. He says he is reminded every day of the urgency of his situation.

"I just want to stay positive and keep moving forward. I mean, I know it's like a cliche, but you know that's probably the best way to do it," says Palumbo.

Palumbo's good friend is Tony Aitoro from Aitoro Appliance. Aitoro went through the same thing and just reached six months with his new kidney. He's doing well.

"When you know the person, it just kind of hits home a little bit closer," says Palumbo.

Palumbo says he's not just fighting this for himself, but also for all the people he loves.

"If it works out well, who knows? They may be stuck with me a little longer," says Palumbo.

Palumbo may be going on dialysis soon. He has many more doctors appointments ahead.

For more information:

Hartford Healthcare/Hartford Hospital

Call: 860-696-2021 or 860-972-4219

Please ask for a Living Donor Nurse and mention that you are calling on behalf of Alfred Palumbo.