What do you think?
Rate this book
Ascending America: Five Kidney Donors, Fifty Peaks in Fifty States, One Record-Breaking Journey
What If Saving a Life Didn’t Limit You, but Propelled You to New Heights?When retired emergency physician and kidney donor Matt Harmody joined a team of four other donors to climb the highest peak in every U.S. state, they weren’t just chasing a Guinness world record. They were out to prove a radical Life after kidney donation has no limits.
Ascending America takes you on an edge-of-your-seat journey through brutal weather, bone-deep exhaustion, and breathtaking landscapes. Alongside the adventure, Harmody dispels common myths about donation, explains dialysis and recovery in clear, human terms, and reveals breakthroughs shaping the future of transplantation.
Inside this book, you’ll living kidney donors often outlive the people they save, and why their bodies thrive.How one kidney donation can start a chain that saves dozens of lives.What it really takes to conquer 50 summits in 41 days (and what those challenges reveal about human resilience).The neuroscience of altruism and why donors often gain more than they give.The future of transplantation, from animal organs to stem-cell innovations.
Both a pulse-pounding outdoor adventure and a call to action, Ascending America shows how extraordinary things happen when courage, science, and human generosity collide. Buy your copy today and rethink what is possible.
Ascending America takes you on an edge-of-your-seat journey through brutal weather, bone-deep exhaustion, and breathtaking landscapes. Alongside the adventure, Harmody dispels common myths about donation, explains dialysis and recovery in clear, human terms, and reveals breakthroughs shaping the future of transplantation.
Inside this book, you’ll living kidney donors often outlive the people they save, and why their bodies thrive.How one kidney donation can start a chain that saves dozens of lives.What it really takes to conquer 50 summits in 41 days (and what those challenges reveal about human resilience).The neuroscience of altruism and why donors often gain more than they give.The future of transplantation, from animal organs to stem-cell innovations.
Both a pulse-pounding outdoor adventure and a call to action, Ascending America shows how extraordinary things happen when courage, science, and human generosity collide. Buy your copy today and rethink what is possible.
480 pages, Paperback
Published November 20, 2025
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
November 15, 2025
Teamwork makes the dreamwork, or so they say. Having been fortunate to receive an advance copy of this author`s first - and remarkably impactful work, I was excited to grab my poles, stock up my backpack with ten essentials and join the mountaineering team. I was briskly thrown onto the side of Denali, winds blowing and cold nagging my bones. With that triumph summited, and safely back in the RV, I paused to reflect that the journey ahead – embracing all 50 peaks and a world record would be far from a walk in the park.
At a time of peace and reflection, having become shamelessly addicted to the story, I paused to contrast their journey with the tiresome plod through worsening renal failure. The smell of uremia is nauseating, the threat of toxins and electrolytes building up in the blood, potentially ending the peaceful beat of one`s heart but all with the hope of a miracle climax in a successful transplant resetting the body clock. These were the parallels in my awed brain as I became engrossed in the stories of these courageous living kidney donors.
Dr. Harmody lays out the groundwork as to whys, then treats us to an Imax style front row seat as he eloquently elaborates on the hows – along with the wows. As the team gets further into their drive/climb journey, I felt my own heart rate getting higher – along with my speed of page turning. Will time run out on them? Will their collective dream reach a tragic end or might there be some elation and meaningful time reclaimed?
I now envisage both mountain climbing and kidney donation in ultra different lights. If you`re seeking selfless stories of courage, with doubt, pain and uncertainty mixed in, then either talk to someone dying of kidney failure, and/or read Ascending America and spend a couple of months with this admirable team of adventurers.
Success is most definitely in the journey, irrespective of one`s destination.
At a time of peace and reflection, having become shamelessly addicted to the story, I paused to contrast their journey with the tiresome plod through worsening renal failure. The smell of uremia is nauseating, the threat of toxins and electrolytes building up in the blood, potentially ending the peaceful beat of one`s heart but all with the hope of a miracle climax in a successful transplant resetting the body clock. These were the parallels in my awed brain as I became engrossed in the stories of these courageous living kidney donors.
Dr. Harmody lays out the groundwork as to whys, then treats us to an Imax style front row seat as he eloquently elaborates on the hows – along with the wows. As the team gets further into their drive/climb journey, I felt my own heart rate getting higher – along with my speed of page turning. Will time run out on them? Will their collective dream reach a tragic end or might there be some elation and meaningful time reclaimed?
I now envisage both mountain climbing and kidney donation in ultra different lights. If you`re seeking selfless stories of courage, with doubt, pain and uncertainty mixed in, then either talk to someone dying of kidney failure, and/or read Ascending America and spend a couple of months with this admirable team of adventurers.
Success is most definitely in the journey, irrespective of one`s destination.
November 6, 2025
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the author. I enjoyed it so much that I ordered one to send to my sister in law who will soon be donating a kidney. I was pleasantly surprised to find the book very readable and enjoyed 'meeting' each of the folks in the book. I felt like I was there as they faced the challenges. It was amazing to imagine what they were attempting to do. For anyone looking for a good read, and especially those who have any interest in understanding a bit more about kidney donation and transplant I definitely recommend this book.
November 19, 2025
A Breathtaking Travelogue with 51 Points
Louise B. Andrew MD JD FIFEM
Ascending America is an inspirational and sometimes breathtaking travelogue about a team of living Kidney donors working to establish a Guiness World Record in summiting each of the highest points in the 50 US states. It is a fascinating tale about a race against time, altitude, and the influence of team members’ own resilience and camaraderie, when confronted with often daunting odds. The tale is told in real time with plenty of authentic dialogue by the author, Dr. Matt Harmody (who was a ground anchor in this team, but is himself a climber). He served as a capable interpreter for all of us non-climbers reading the book.
Parts of Ascending America are reminiscent of “Little Miss Sunshine”, describing awkward and humorous moments during mostly ground travels by RV between trailheads to the 50 points. But the more gripping parts are more like Krakauer’s “Into Thin Air”, dealing with life threatening weather and geographic obstacles encountered in the quest, as well as difficult personal decisions and thorny team interactions, as well as injuries that made having an emergency physician (author Harmody) on the support team much more than just a wise precaution.
The tale is interspersed with each team member’s own reasons for and journey of becoming a kidney donor, and afterwards, resuming (or beginning) their journey as a “One Kidney Endurance Athlete”, inspired by the ennobling experience of kidney donation.
After the goal of establishing the Guiness world record time for summitting all 50 high points is achieved and recorded, Dr. Harmody delves into perhaps his most important, 51st Point: We are facing a critical deficit in lifesaving kidney donations for the now over 900,000 persons on dialysis and transplant waitlists in the US. He describes in lay terms the indispensable function of kidneys, the devastating effects of renal failure AND of dialysis, and the rigorous but incredibly rewarding process of becoming a living kidney donor. He explains why deceased kidney donation can never begin to address the deficit (because fewer than 1% of deceased donor kidneys are usable) and that “pigneys” and artificial kidneys are still decades away from actualization. So relying on these systems will not put a dent in the daily deaths of at least 14 US patients on transplant waitlists.
He also details the avoidable obstacles that kidney donation entails, as well as ongoing legislative efforts, such as the End Kidney Deaths Act HR 2687 which will, if successfully enacted, increase the numbers of living donations from the current level of approximately 6,000 per year to a level that might save 10,000 lives/year currently lost to kidney disease, AND spare the government the nearly $50B per year (approximately 1% of all taxpayer dollars) Medicare currently expends to maintain kidney failure patients on grueling and dangerous, but life prolonging dialysis. Enactment of this bill could even salvage Medicare, which is on a path towards insolvency by 2033 if the current trajectory is not changed.
A portion of proceeds of the book go towards increasing kidney donations through the National Kidney Donation Organization, in which two of the team members are leaders. Thanks to the publisher for providing a review copy: Ascending America was indeed an inspirational read.
Louise B. Andrew MD JD FIFEM
Ascending America is an inspirational and sometimes breathtaking travelogue about a team of living Kidney donors working to establish a Guiness World Record in summiting each of the highest points in the 50 US states. It is a fascinating tale about a race against time, altitude, and the influence of team members’ own resilience and camaraderie, when confronted with often daunting odds. The tale is told in real time with plenty of authentic dialogue by the author, Dr. Matt Harmody (who was a ground anchor in this team, but is himself a climber). He served as a capable interpreter for all of us non-climbers reading the book.
Parts of Ascending America are reminiscent of “Little Miss Sunshine”, describing awkward and humorous moments during mostly ground travels by RV between trailheads to the 50 points. But the more gripping parts are more like Krakauer’s “Into Thin Air”, dealing with life threatening weather and geographic obstacles encountered in the quest, as well as difficult personal decisions and thorny team interactions, as well as injuries that made having an emergency physician (author Harmody) on the support team much more than just a wise precaution.
The tale is interspersed with each team member’s own reasons for and journey of becoming a kidney donor, and afterwards, resuming (or beginning) their journey as a “One Kidney Endurance Athlete”, inspired by the ennobling experience of kidney donation.
After the goal of establishing the Guiness world record time for summitting all 50 high points is achieved and recorded, Dr. Harmody delves into perhaps his most important, 51st Point: We are facing a critical deficit in lifesaving kidney donations for the now over 900,000 persons on dialysis and transplant waitlists in the US. He describes in lay terms the indispensable function of kidneys, the devastating effects of renal failure AND of dialysis, and the rigorous but incredibly rewarding process of becoming a living kidney donor. He explains why deceased kidney donation can never begin to address the deficit (because fewer than 1% of deceased donor kidneys are usable) and that “pigneys” and artificial kidneys are still decades away from actualization. So relying on these systems will not put a dent in the daily deaths of at least 14 US patients on transplant waitlists.
He also details the avoidable obstacles that kidney donation entails, as well as ongoing legislative efforts, such as the End Kidney Deaths Act HR 2687 which will, if successfully enacted, increase the numbers of living donations from the current level of approximately 6,000 per year to a level that might save 10,000 lives/year currently lost to kidney disease, AND spare the government the nearly $50B per year (approximately 1% of all taxpayer dollars) Medicare currently expends to maintain kidney failure patients on grueling and dangerous, but life prolonging dialysis. Enactment of this bill could even salvage Medicare, which is on a path towards insolvency by 2033 if the current trajectory is not changed.
A portion of proceeds of the book go towards increasing kidney donations through the National Kidney Donation Organization, in which two of the team members are leaders. Thanks to the publisher for providing a review copy: Ascending America was indeed an inspirational read.
February 17, 2026
Ascending America is a truly captivating and entertaining read that manages to bridge the gap between a noble purpose of raising awareness for living kidney donation, and deeply personal storytelling. As a living kidney donor, I felt a personal connection to this mission. The author possesses a remarkable ability to assign a distinct, unique personality to every character, which transforms them from ordinary figures into living, breathing people. This depth allowed me to intimately experience their pain, fear, and excitement as they navigated their challenging journeys.
What sets this book apart is how it balances individual narratives with broader context:
Rich Historical Detail: I thoroughly enjoyed how the author provided fascinating historical backgrounds for each of the high points, making the reader feel the weight and significance of every destination.
The Journey Defined: The brief but vivid overviews of the roads traveled to reach these peaks added a gritty sense of realism, showing that the path to achievement is rarely a straight line.
Atmospheric Prose: The writing style is immersive, painting such a clear picture of the American landscape and the areas explored that I felt like I was traveling right alongside the characters.
Overall, it is a profoundly moving work that celebrates the human spirit while honoring the underlying purpose of the journey.
What sets this book apart is how it balances individual narratives with broader context:
Rich Historical Detail: I thoroughly enjoyed how the author provided fascinating historical backgrounds for each of the high points, making the reader feel the weight and significance of every destination.
The Journey Defined: The brief but vivid overviews of the roads traveled to reach these peaks added a gritty sense of realism, showing that the path to achievement is rarely a straight line.
Atmospheric Prose: The writing style is immersive, painting such a clear picture of the American landscape and the areas explored that I felt like I was traveling right alongside the characters.
Overall, it is a profoundly moving work that celebrates the human spirit while honoring the underlying purpose of the journey.
December 4, 2025
As a living kidney donor and a transplant medical professional, Ascending America resonated with me on every level. Matt Harmody captures something I see every day in clinic and in advocacy work but rarely see depicted with such honesty: donating a kidney doesn’t diminish a person—it expands their life. His climb across all 50 high points isn’t just an adventure story; it’s a testament to what donors already know in our bones—that strength, resilience, and purpose often grow after donation.
What I loved most was how Harmody weaves accessible medical insight into a gripping narrative. He breaks down dialysis, recovery, and the science of altruism in a way that feels both accurate and deeply human. For clinicians, it’s affirming. For donors and donor-curious readers, it’s empowering. And for advocates like me, it’s the kind of story that helps shatter myths that still keep too many people from saying “yes” to saving a life.
This book reminded me why I do the work I do, why I fight for access and transplant equity, and why I will always champion living donation. Ascending America isn’t just about reaching summits—it’s about redefining what’s possible when someone chooses to give another person a future. I couldn’t recommend it more.
What I loved most was how Harmody weaves accessible medical insight into a gripping narrative. He breaks down dialysis, recovery, and the science of altruism in a way that feels both accurate and deeply human. For clinicians, it’s affirming. For donors and donor-curious readers, it’s empowering. And for advocates like me, it’s the kind of story that helps shatter myths that still keep too many people from saying “yes” to saving a life.
This book reminded me why I do the work I do, why I fight for access and transplant equity, and why I will always champion living donation. Ascending America isn’t just about reaching summits—it’s about redefining what’s possible when someone chooses to give another person a future. I couldn’t recommend it more.
November 3, 2025
Ascending America is a powerful and deeply moving journey that blends adventure, purpose, and compassion in an unforgettable way. Matt Harmody brings to life the extraordinary story of five kidney donors who set out to climb fifty peaks across fifty states not just to break a record, but to raise awareness and celebrate the gift of life itself.
The writing is honest and heartfelt, filled with moments of courage, humor, and profound reflection. It’s more than a story of endurance,it’s a testament to human connection and the incredible things that can happen when ordinary people choose to do something extraordinary.
A truly inspiring read that uplifts, motivates, and stays with you long after the final page.
The writing is honest and heartfelt, filled with moments of courage, humor, and profound reflection. It’s more than a story of endurance,it’s a testament to human connection and the incredible things that can happen when ordinary people choose to do something extraordinary.
A truly inspiring read that uplifts, motivates, and stays with you long after the final page.
December 1, 2025
This book is an inspirational story of endurance and human interaction. As Living kidney donors we thank the author for sharing this story about brave kidney donors who push what is possible for any person, including those with only one kidney. There is a huge kidney shortage and we hope this book will convince more people to consider kidney donation. Thank you for sharing this inspiring book of courage and pushing human limits.
As a side note- you don’t have to be a super athlete to donate a kidney. My husband and I both donated kidneys in our mid 60’s and would do it again tomorrow if possible. You don’t have to be a runner or climb mountains - you just have to be healthy.
As a side note- you don’t have to be a super athlete to donate a kidney. My husband and I both donated kidneys in our mid 60’s and would do it again tomorrow if possible. You don’t have to be a runner or climb mountains - you just have to be healthy.
Read
December 1, 2025As a proud kidney donor, I found this book to be profoundly inspiring. It eloquently portrays the incredible resilience of the human body and spirit, illustrating just how much can be achieved with only one kidney. Throughout my journey, I’ve encountered numerous athletes and dedicated donors who exemplify strength and selflessness. Their stories of determination and generosity resonate deeply, and this book beautifully captures that essence.
My hope is that it encourages readers to consider organ donation and showcases the boundless potential that lies within both the human body and the heart. Together, we can make a transformative impact!
My hope is that it encourages readers to consider organ donation and showcases the boundless potential that lies within both the human body and the heart. Together, we can make a transformative impact!
November 24, 2025
Ascending America is an inspiring blend of adventure, medical insight, and human resilience. Matt Harmody captures both the physical intensity of summiting fifty peaks and the emotional depth behind living kidney donation. The book’s greatest strength is how seamlessly it connects breathtaking landscapes with the generosity and grit of the donors themselves. A powerful, motivating read that reframes what we believe is possible.
December 1, 2025
I am reviewing an advanced reader copy. This book would not have fallen into the genre of the books I normally read, but I found it very entertaining and informative. The author did a great job of explaining terms and equipment. Getting to know the personalities of the hikers was fascinating given their different skill sets. Even though I knew the outcome, just reading about the trials and successes (and failures) they went through to summit each peak kept me reading!
January 24, 2026
A great story of courage and perseverance that was hard to put down once I started reading it. The amazing feat this team pulled off is proof that life does not necessarily have to be limited after kidney donation. Read about the details of the incredible accomplishment by this team in the first section, then finish by learning more about kidney donation itself in the last section. I have been and will continue to recommend this book to everyone I know!
Read
March 24, 2026I'm astounded by the resilience, drive, and generosity of everyone in this book. The adventure of summiting the highest points of all 50 states is entertaining enough on its own, but it's made even more powerful by the fact that the team was made up of living kidney donors.
January 26, 2026
The physical and mental strength the group possessed while climbing in brutal conditions was astounding . The information on kidney donation was enlightening. Fun and educating read.
February 13, 2026
I felt like I was actually making the mountain climbs several times while reading this book!
It was very well written with great attention to actual details.
It was very well written with great attention to actual details.
May 3, 2026
As a living kidney donor, (and one of Jodi’s good friends!) I could feel the teammate tension in some of the parts! Well written and informative, Dr. Harmody. Thanks for this!
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews