KSDK: Lindenwood Coach Gets Second Chance After Kidney Transplant

After years of coaching division one football while navigating kidney failure and dialysis, Isaac Akers is grateful to be back on the field pursuing his purpose.

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For the first time in seven years, Lindenwood quality control coach Isaac Akers will begin a football season healthy.

The 32-year-old has faced numerous health obstacles since being diagnosed with a rare kidney disease called FSGS (Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis). Complications led to deterioration of his hips—and he quickly went from a healthy young athlete to using a cane and juggling coaching responsibilities with dialysis.

He eventually turned to a team of caregivers across BJC HealthCare, who developed a game plan to bring Isaac back to health.

In December 2025, Isaac underwent a kidney transplant at Barnes-Jewish Hospital. Now seven months out from the procedure, Isaac is already back on the field, in the gym, and starting the football season healthy.

KSDK talked with Isaac and two of his providers, WashU transplant surgeons Dr. Caroline Godfrey and Dr. Gregory Martens, about his journey and the care that got him back on the field.