I have eight people actively testing to see if they could be possible kidney donors for me.
A paired exchange, or kidney swap, occurs when two or more living donors exchange kidneys with transplant recipients to create compatible matches.
I’ve been on the struggle bus this weekend with fatigue.
I often get asked how I shower with a port catheter. I use a JJ Care catheter protector, handheld shower, and towel to carefully wash while keeping my port catheter dry.
I’ve started dedicating 30 minutes a day to a “pity party” to fully acknowledge my struggles. This intentional grieving process has been liberating, allowing me to mourn and then move forward more present and focused. It helps me balance acceptance and hope, staying grounded in the present while envisioning a better future. I hope this practice can help others feeling overwhelmed.
Learn how to cook delicious peanut butter and jelly French toast that is also kidney-friendly with our step-by-step video tutorial. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to indulge in a tasty breakfast or brunch dish without compromising their kidney health.
I have important health updates: I have a crucial meeting with INOVA Fairfax to get listed for a deceased kidney donor in Virginia, and my appointment at John Hopkins in Baltimore has been moved up, allowing me to get listed in Maryland sooner. These steps increase my chances for a kidney donor, bringing hope and gratitude for the support I receive.
Barney turns 5 months old tomorrow and loves his bouncer, filling the house with his giggles. Despite facing dialysis on the 4th of July, I hope to catch some fireworks later. Barney will be with Ian and my parents, giving me comfort. Wishing everyone a fantastic 4th of July filled with love, laughter, and beautiful memories.
Last Thursday, I was evaluated at George Washington Hospital, which offers a fast-track option for living donor transplants with less bureaucratic red tape. Excitingly, three incredible individuals have stepped forward as potential kidney donors, filling me with immense hope. Sharing my story increases my chances of finding a match, and you don’t have to live in Maryland to donate—you can be tested from any state. Please share my journey with your network to spread hope and potentially save a life. Thank you for your continued support.
Over Memorial Day weekend, my family and I retreated to Massanutten ski resort for a much-needed getaway. While we had ambitious plans to explore trails and enjoy outdoor activities, my body had other ideas. Instead, we embraced simpler pleasures like live music and naps, learning to honor my physical limits. This experience reminded me that the greatest adventures often lie in quiet moments. Despite the change in plans, the weekend was fulfilling, filled with gratitude for the present moment, and the joy of creating unhurried memories with our baby in a beautiful mountain setting.