Since 2016, I’ve been living with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), and I’ve now entered Stage 5. That means my kidneys are now functioning at just a fraction of what they should be—and my only path forward is a lifesaving kidney transplant.
This journey has been tough. CKD has changed so much about my life—my energy, my independence, my plans for the future. I try to stay strong, but the reality is hard: my health will only continue to decline without a transplant. The wait for a deceased donor can take five years or more. It’s frightening to think of what I might lose during that time.
But there is still hope. A living donor offers the best chance—not only to survive, but to truly live again. A living transplant means better outcomes, a shorter wait, and the possibility of feeling more like myself. It means more time with my family, more opportunities to volunteer, and maybe even returning to teaching, which has always been my passion—even if just part-time.
It’s not easy to ask for this. I know how big it is. But I also know that one person has the power to give me a second chance at life.
If you’ve ever considered becoming a kidney donor—or want to learn more—you can visit https://giftworksuuh.com/kathiec/. Sharing my story is scary, but it’s also my lifeline. I’m holding on to hope, and I’m so grateful for anyone willing to walk this road with me.
