"My nephrologist, Dr. Gerald Appel, is currently working on selecting the most compatible donor for the transplant," Mourning, who stunned the Nets with his announced retirement two weeks ago, wrote in the letter, expressing hope, gratitude and his intention to continue his charitable work. "I am fortunate enough to have several friends, relatives and even people I have never met volunteer to donate a kidney to aid in my recovery - a very selfless act indeed.

"If all goes as expected, we anticipate that it will be possible to have the surgery completed by the end of the year," added Mourning, who was first diagnosed with the disease in October, 2000. "All things considered, I am in excellent spirits and extremely thankful for all the love and support that surrounds me . . . I am looking forward to all the wonderful possibilities the New Year has to offer . . . As one chapter of my life ends, another begins."