38 Year Old USMC Veteran in Kidney Failure

Hello, my name is Lucie, and I am writing this in desperation for help. My husband, Brendan, and I are currently facing one of the most challenging times of our lives. Brendan is a combat veteran who served in the Marine Corps for over 8 years, including a combat tour while I was pregnant with our oldest son. Shortly after leaving the Marines, he was diagnosed with Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD), a chronic and degenerative condition with no cure or significant treatments.

PKD causes cysts to grow uncontrollably over the kidneys, ultimately leading to kidney failure. Despite receiving excellent medical care, Brendan's condition is deteriorating rapidly. Unfortunately, PKD is not considered a service-related disability.

After leaving active duty, Brendan continued to selflessly support the veteran community by working for several nonprofit organizations, including those that assist homeless veterans, food-insecure veterans, and wounded veterans.

Last month, I was furloughed from my full-time job working with transitioning service members due to budget cuts. This was a devastating blow to our financial security, but our real struggles had only just begun. The following week, Brendan was admitted to the hospital for the third time in three months due to burst cysts, which are incredibly painful. Last year, one burst cyst caused a blockage to his urethra, requiring surgical intervention. This time, the burst cyst led to an infection, causing his kidney function to plummet. Unfortunately, the damage was irreversible, and Brendan is now preparing for dialysis as he waits for a kidney transplant.

At only 38 years old, Brendan is in constant pain and suffers from a long list of side effects, including dangerously high blood pressure, swelling in his legs/feet, fatigue, nausea, loss of appetite, and weight loss. His current job is too demanding given his physical condition, and he has had to step away from a job he adores with the Wounded Warrior Project.

We have three school-aged children, and we are deeply concerned about their well-being while we struggle to keep up with regular bills, medical bills and also save for the upcoming medical needs. Brendan has sacrificed so much for our family and our country over the last 15+ years. Please help me support him during this trying time so that he can focus on healing and preparing for a transplant.

I understand that times are tough for everyone, so any donation you can make would be immensely appreciated. If you are unable to donate, please consider sharing this with your network instead.