I was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease at 8 years old, which attacked my kidneys, and I’ve been closely monitored ever since. My kidney function has gradually declined over the years, but over the last 2 years, it’s started to decline faster. In June 2024, my GFR dropped low enough for me to be eligible for a kidney transplant.
Right now, Right now, I’m in Stage 4 Kidney Disease. With a young family, transplant is now my best option because I want to avoid dialysis and be able to enjoy the best quality of life possible, for myself and my family.
While I push myself daily, my wife often says I may not realize just how poorly I’ve felt for so long. I take good care of myself and eat well, but one of the biggest challenges has been my limited diet to manage my protein, potassium, and phosphate levels. Planning meals has become difficult at times with these restrictions. My 4-year-old daughter now talks about daddy going to the doctor frequently, which has started to feel like a norm for her. My wife worries about me and what the decline in my kidney function means for our future. I’m trying to make things easier around the house, preparing for what might come if/when I go into kidney failure and need dialysis. However, my hope is to avoid that path and a living donor will make that possible.
If you’re reading this, please consider sharing. Simply sharing might help me reach a person who sees my story and wants to help. Thank you! www.giftworksuuh.com/nickolast.
