Former basketball player Nate Robinson is currently struggling with kidney failure.

In a sport dominated by towering athletes, Nate Robinson, standing at only 5'9", defied the odds and made it to the NBA, inspiring others who may not fit the traditional mold of a professional basketball player. But his journey to the pros was nothing compared to the battle he is currently facing as he searches for a new kidney to continue living.

In a candid interview with Men's Health, the 40-year-old former New York Knicks player opened up about his struggle with kidney failure. He revealed that during his time in the NBA, he played with high blood pressure, despite doctors warning him about the potential dangers. There were instances where his blood pressure was so high that doctors advised him to sit out, but Nate's determination to play outweighed any concerns for his health.

Nate was diagnosed with kidney disease in 2006, and doctors predicted that his kidneys would eventually fail in his 30s. However, he failed to take care of himself as advised and is now in need of a new kidney.

His mindset at the time? "I felt invincible, like Superman. I never thought I would get sick."

But everything changed in 2018 when his kidneys gave out. Despite knowing the consequences, Nate delayed treatment. Then, in 2020, he contracted COVID-19 while attending his son's basketball tournament in Philadelphia. Upon returning home to Seattle, he was immediately hospitalized.

"It was a scary experience, bro," Nate shared. "My body just shut down. The doctors told me I needed to start dialysis right away. They said my kidneys were working too hard and were deteriorating rapidly. The only chance I had to survive was to start dialysis."

Now, Nate has to undergo regular dialysis treatments to compensate for his failing kidneys. He has also made significant changes to his diet, cutting out processed and junk food and focusing on fresh fruits, vegetables, and lean meats.

He acknowledges the importance of diet in maintaining good health, stating, "What we eat can either harm us or heal us. Real fruits and vegetables from the earth have the power to heal."

Nate's determination and resilience, which propelled him to success in the NBA, are the same qualities he relies on as he continues to search for a compatible kidney donor. He knows that he has to fight for his life so that he can be around for the next 40 years, to be a grandfather, share stories of his time in the NBA with his grandchildren, and maybe even take them to the gym.

"I have to stay strong and keep fighting," Nate says. "I want to live to see my kids' kids and be there for them. I want to share my experiences of playing with legends like LeBron and Kobe. I have to keep fighting for it."

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