Kidney4kennedy

My journey started in 10th grade when I was diagnosed with hypertension. At the time, it didn’t make sense, we didn’t know why it was happening. Looking back, I realized I was holding a lot in and trying to deal with everything on my own, which wasn’t healthy.
In January 2020, things became more serious. After abnormal lab results, I had to get a kidney biopsy. What was supposed to be a procedure turned into a week-long hospital stay due to complications. While I was there, I received the news that 1/3 of my kidney was already damaged. That moment took a huge toll on me mentally. I didn’t understand why this was happening to me.

After being diagnosed with kidney disease, I was put on medications that helped stabilize things for a while. There was even a point where I was told no further damage had been done, which gave me hope. But this journey has never just affected me, it has affected my entire family.
In October 2024, everything changed. I went to the hospital short of breath, and after running tests, I was transferred to Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta where my care team is. After days of testing, I was told I had acute renal failure and would need to start dialysis immediately after leaving the hospital.

I was crushed. I never imagined being in this position at my age. I didn’t fully understand what dialysis meant, and I felt confused, scared, and honestly disappointed in myself. I kept telling myself it was temporary but soon after starting dialysis, I learned I was in end-stage kidney failure, meaning I would need dialysis until I receive a kidney transplant.

That moment broke me.

I went into a deep depression. It felt like my world was falling apart and there was nothing I could do to stop it. Even now, some days are harder than others. Every day is a mental battle but every day, I choose to keep fighting.

The biggest lesson this journey has taught me is patience. Patience with my body, and patience with others. Because unless you’ve experienced something like this, it’s hard to truly understand.

And now, there’s hope.

This week, I received the news that I am officially listed for a kidney transplant through MUSC. I could get the call at any moment. I’m excited, nervous, and hopeful. This would change everything for me. It would give me my life back.

Right now, my life feels like it’s on pause. A transplant would mean a second chance.

While my insurance will cover the surgery, there are still many out-of-pocket expenses, housing, food, and time away from work for both me and my mom, who will be supporting me through this process.

If you’re able, please consider supporting my foundation, Kidney 4 Kennedy. Whether it’s purchasing a product or donating, any amount truly helps.

Thank you for taking the time to hear my story and for being part of my journey