A New Kidney & Liver For Derek

Hi, my name is Danielle and I am fundraising for my 9-year-old nephew, Derek. Many of you who know me, know about my amazing nephew Derek because I love to share his incredible story, but some of you may not so I want to share a little background first.

Derek was born with a rare genetic disease, ARPKD, that destroyed his kidneys while he was growing in the womb. He has also struggled with liver disease, CHF, since he was an infant, but he received a kidney transplant seven years ago, and he has been doing remarkably well since then.

However, the past few months have been challenging for him, and his health. To make matters worse, he and his family were involved in an auto accident on Friday, February 17th. Derek appeared to be okay at first, but his condition took a drastic turn over the next six hours. He began swelling in his face and neck so he was rushed to the ER. After many weeks of hospitalization we were informed by his doctors that he urgently needs a kidney & liver transplant.

Unfortunately Derek is unable to receive the dialysis he now requires 3 times a week, to be performed locally. Nor does he have the option of a dual transplant in Florida. So his family is working with UPMC of Pittsburgh to prepare Derek for a living dual kidney & liver transplant and give our sweet boy a fighting chance at a better life.

In this challenging time, we are asking for your help. Derek urgently needs a kidney and liver, and we are looking for a suitable donor who is type O blood type. If you or anyone you know is interested in becoming a possible living donor, please contact us here so we can help determine if you might be a match.

Derek is a strong and resilient young boy who has been through so much in his short life. We are praying that he can overcome this latest hurdle and that a suitable kidney and liver donor can be found quickly. Any help and support you can provide to spread the word will be greatly appreciated. Please keep Derek and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

If you feel it in your heart to help but aren't O blood type, we are also accepting donations as well to help with the travel and insurance expenses that will be incurred during this already challenging time.

We thank you all for the support & prayers!

xoxo,

Derek's Family