CofC Officer Loses Both Kidneys to Cancer, Needs New Ones

A Journey of Resilience and Hope

Lamar Williams, a dedicated officer with the College of Charleston Department of Public Safety, has spent 14 years serving his community. His commitment to duty is matched only by his determination to overcome personal challenges. Despite battling kidney cancer and kidney failure, which led to the removal of both kidneys, Williams remains grateful for the support he receives and the opportunities to make a difference.

Williams initially dismissed his symptoms—tiredness, mild headaches, and swelling in his legs—as minor issues. However, routine blood work revealed a more serious condition. In July 2022, he was diagnosed with renal kidney failure, and further testing uncovered kidney cancer. By September 2022, he underwent surgery to remove one kidney. The battle wasn’t over. In October 2024, another scan showed cancer cells in his right kidney, leading to a second surgery in November 2024. Within two years, he lost both kidneys, a devastating blow that forced him to rely on dialysis.

Despite this, Williams continues to show remarkable strength. He has been on the organ transplant list since his diagnosis and remains hopeful for a donor. His journey has brought him to DaVita Dialysis, where he learned how to perform home dialysis. This process, which involves using a machine to clean his blood, has allowed him to maintain his independence and continue working.

Home dialysis has become a lifeline for Williams. Peritoneal Dialysis Nurse Mary Legette, who trained him, explains the importance of the procedure. “If you don’t have dialysis, patients aren’t receiving dialysis, they could die,” she said. She also emphasized the benefits of home dialysis, which allows patients to undergo treatment while asleep, freeing up their days for work and family time.

Williams’s dedication to his health has not gone unnoticed. Chief Chip Searson, his boss, is deeply moved by his resilience. “Our health is everything that we have in life,” Searson said. “Our health and our faith and our families.” For Williams, his wife Moneke plays a crucial role in his journey. They met at work and have been married for 11 years. Her unwavering support has been a source of strength for him.

Moneke, who works as an assistant shift supervisor, finds comfort in being close to her husband at work. Their shared experiences have deepened their bond. Despite the challenges, Williams remains focused on living his life to the fullest. He believes that helping others is a way to find purpose. “If I can be a help to someone’s life, then that’s me living everlasting life,” he said. “It’s funny how life kind of works itself out, but at the end of it, I’m blessed.”

Williams’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance and hope. He credits his survival to the chance discovery through routine blood work, which led to early intervention. His experience highlights the importance of regular health check-ups and the need for more organ donors.

Organ donation can save lives, and Williams encourages others to consider becoming donors. By signing up, individuals can provide a second chance for those waiting for a transplant. Every person has the potential to make a difference, just as Williams continues to do every day.