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I have Polycystic Kidney Disease; something that has been in my family for 5 generations. I have been on dialysis for over a year, and with the love and support of my family and friends, it has been a fairly easy road. I go 3 times a week, and my family, friends, co-workers, and the staff at dialysis have all been incredible.
My niece through marriage, Jessica, wanted to donate her kidney to me, but it turns out we were not a match. So, she signed us up for a paired exchange program. What that means, is that she can donate her kidney to someone in the U.S. that is a match for her, and a stranger can donate their kidney to me. UCLA has been doing this for a number of years, and a kidney became available for me, and someone at the same time needs hers. There are 5 people in this paired exchange; 5 people getting a kidney, and 5 people receiving a kidney. It is truly a miracle!!!!!
The support I've received in the past 2 weeks has been overwhelming. Prior to this program, 14 of my friends came forward to be tested, and no one was a match for me. Having this other option is saving the lives for 5 of us.
Two of my out of State friends, Rochelle and Marybeth, along with my husband, Tom, and my nephew, Mark, will be with me in L.A. We will be staying up there for almost 2 weeks. I will have so much care I may become very spoiled.
I just want to thank everyone who has been on this journey with me. I have so much to look forward to in the coming years!
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