Championship Effort: Jerry Kocan & Quinshon Judkins Turn Touchdowns into Kidney Patient Support
Four Star Freightliner Dealer Principal Jerry Kocan and his wife, Nancy, have once again demonstrated their unwavering commitment to the Alabama Kidney Foundation (AKF) by making a generous $16,000 donation. This contribution follows their successful leadership as co-chairs of the 2024 Montgomery Kidney Walk, where they helped surpass the fundraising goal with over $300,000 raised.
Kocan, a proud graduate of The Ohio State University, wanted to continue his impact beyond the walk. He pledged to donate $1,000 to the AKF for every touchdown scored by Pike Road native and Ohio State Buckeye running back Quinshon Judkins during the 2024 football season. With Judkins scoring 16 touchdowns—14 rushing and 2 receiving—Kocan proudly presented the $16,000 check at Four Star Freightliner’s 25th Anniversary Celebration on February 19. Judkins, along with his family and Shannon Morrell, Middle Alabama Regional Director of the Alabama Kidney Foundation, joined the special event for the check presentation.
“We were so honored to chair the Central Alabama Kidney Foundation Walk for 2024, but our campaign extended into 2025 thanks to Montgomery’s own Quinshon Judkins and his National Championship run,” said Kocan. “On Ohio State's journey to the National Championship, he scored 16 touchdowns. We are very proud and honored to present the Alabama Kidney Foundation $16,000 in recognition of his achievement.”
The Alabama Kidney Foundation provides essential support, education, and financial assistance to low-income kidney dialysis patients throughout the state. Contributions like Kocan’s help ensure patients receive aid for utility bills, prescription medications, and transportation to and from dialysis treatments.
“The Alabama Kidney Foundation has been beyond blessed to have the loyal partnership and support of Jerry and Nancy Kocan and the entire Four Star Freightliner family,” said Morrell. “Because of their leadership, personal generosity, and creative pledge in honor of Quinshon Judkins, the AKF was able to raise an additional $16,000, bringing their total support close to $120,000. We cannot thank them enough.”
The donation also marks a unique milestone as both Four Star Freightliner and the Alabama Kidney Foundation celebrate significant anniversaries—25 years in business and 50 years of service, respectively.
“What a beautiful thing to see two organizations making such a positive impact in the lives of so many,” added Morrell. “It looks like scarlet, grey, black and white sure go well with green and white!”
The colors scarlet, grey, black and white represent both The Ohio State University and Four Star Freightliner, while the green and white symbolize the Alabama Kidney Foundation’s dedication to kidney patients across the state.