NEW BEDFORD, Mass. (WPRI) — A New Bedford teen is in need of a new kidney after he was diagnosed with stage five chronic kidney disease. Michael Blechar-Melancon said he ignored his symptoms for years, continuing to work instead. That all changed when he got a diagnosis in December. His mom, Amanda DaSilva, described the situation as a nightmare. ALSO READ: Rhode Island doctor deported despite having work visa "Michael is a wonderful young man and has his whole life ahead of him, he just graduated, he just started to become a young man," she told 12 News. "I want him to live." The 19-year-old now undergoes daily dialysis which can take anywhere from 8 to 11 hours every day. His family has converted an area in their house into a makeshift hospital room for Michael's treatments. DaSilva also left her job to care for her son. "I want him to be able to be a man and go back to work and live half way normal," she said. Right now, Michael is on Rhode Island's transplant list, and he is waiting to go on another one in Massachusetts too. His family said it may take four to six years for Michael to get a kidney, but he needs a kidney now. So, the family is asking the public for help. "I can't bury my son," DaSilva said. "I just can't." If you are interested in finding out whether you could be a donor match for Michael, you can contact Rhode Island Hospital's Transplant Coordinator at (401) 444-3091. Download the WPRI 12 and Pinpoint Weather 12 apps to get breaking news and weather alerts. Watch 12 News Now on WPRI.com or with the new 12+ smart TV app. Follow us on social media:                     Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup SIGN UP NOW ...read more read less