Danielle’s Story

Hi, I’m Danielle Roessle, a military spouse and mother of a one-year-old son. On February 18th, 2025, I received a life-saving kidney transplant—an event that changed my life forever. This is my journey.

I was a healthy, active woman until I gave birth to my son in February 2024. Complications during delivery changed everything—I lost my kidneys and suddenly found myself navigating motherhood while fighting for my life.

Since then, I’ve documented my journey—from surviving dialysis as a new mom to launching a kidney campaign in search of a living donor, to now embracing life post-transplant.

Through my vlogging and writing, I explore not just my own experience but the deeper realities of living with chronic illness, navigating the medical system, and, most importantly, the life-saving impact of organ donation. My hope is to spark deeper reflection, educate, and inspire meaningful conversations.

Whether you’re a friend following my updates, a fellow patient navigating your own journey, or simply curious about the life-changing power of organ donation, I invite you to follow along. It’s been a wild, emotional ride—and I’m just beginning to scratch the surface…

Interested in becoming a living kidney donor? Learn more through DOVE, a nonprofit supporting veterans in need.

Learn More About Becoming a Kidney Donor

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Blog

Childcare and Kidney Disease

Life has been a whirlwind lately, especially with medical appointments and preparing for Barney's transition to daycare. Starting June 3rd, Barney will begin daycare as our night nurse's time with us ends. Although it's bittersweet, we believe this daycare will provide a nurturing environment for him. Balancing medical commitments and childcare has been challenging, but we're optimistic about the positive changes ahead.

My First Mother’s Day

Happy belated Mother’s Day to all the amazing moms! My first Mother’s Day was filled with joy as we celebrated at the beach. Surrounded by family, I cherished the blessings of motherhood. Yet, I also faced the sobering reality of my health, leading me to redefine dreams and prioritize well-being.

Dining Out With Dietary Restrictions

Dining out with dietary restrictions can be challenging, as I learned this week when my meals were served with salt despite clear instructions. These frustrating experiences remind me why I often prefer home-cooked meals. Until my dietary needs change, I’ll likely limit dining out and focus on safer options at home.

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