June 12, 2025
If you’ve ever visited Cork & Candles in Ardmore, PA, chances are you’ve met the co-owner, Chris Holloway. Maybe he helped you pick out a scent that reminded you of home. Maybe he welcomed you with a smile and made you feel seen. That’s just who Chris is. He’s someone who shows up for people. Quietly. Consistently. With his whole heart.
Today, he needs someone to show up for him.
A Journey That Started a Decade Ago
In 2016, Chris was diagnosed with a rare kidney disease called FSGS. It progressed quickly, and that same year, he received his first kidney transplant, a miracle that gave him a second chance at life. He didn’t take a single day of that gift for granted. He poured himself into his work, his family, his community, and his friends. That kidney served him well for almost a decade. But now, it’s failing and he needs another one.
When “No” Still Means “We Tried”
When we learned Chris needed a second transplant, those of us closest to him didn’t hesitate. Dave Straub, co-founder of Cork & Candles, immediately began the process to become a living donor. He felt called as a friend to support him in any way that he could. Months of testing, paperwork, and hope followed. But ultimately, Dave wasn’t a match. His health didn’t align with what Chris needed. It’s a hard thing to hear that your heart says yes, but your body says no. We were devastated, but we’re not giving up.
How You Can Help
If you’re generally healthy and open to the idea of being a living donor, we’re asking you to consider getting tested. The process starts with a simple online form. Even if you’re not a direct match for Chris, there’s a chance you could help by sharing his story. Every time this story is shared, it reaches new people—and maybe, just maybe, the one person who’s a perfect match.
We believe in the power of community. We believe in the kindness of strangers. We believe that Chris will find his match. We believe you can help us achieve our goal.
To learn more or begin the donor screening process, visit:
https://nkr.donorscreen.org/register/microsite?id=11629&donationType=0
To watch Chris tell his story in his own words:
https://youtu.be/kJtlCQrSR4M
Know someone who may be a match?
https://nkr.org/TLX698