Bella’s kidney transplant fund

Dear friends, family, and compassionate supporters,

We hope this message finds you in good health and spirits. We are reaching out to you today with a heavy heart but also hope for a brighter future. This is Nick and Rachel Pray, fighting for our daughter, Isabella Pray (Bella). Bella is in need of your support for a life changing journey - a kidney transplant.

From the beginning of Bella’s life she has battled health issues. Born premature at 27 weeks, only 3lbs 9oz, Bella spent her first month of life in the Neonatal intensive care unit. At the beginning of high school, She was diagnosed with Crohn's disease. While that is serious and has been very unpleasant for her, things became much more serious when her blood work showed that her kidneys were shutting down. On February 16th of 2022, during her junior year, she was diagnosed with "interstitial nephritis". Doctors have informed us that a kidney transplant is her only chance at a healthier and more fulfilling life.

Bella, being the beautiful human that she is, took this news with fierce bravery, and absolute determination to make the best out of a terrible situation. She juggled school on top of making all of her appointments and still graduated strong in 2023 with hope for a bright future ahead.

Bella is now in stage 5 kidney failure, and it has taken a toll on every aspect of her life. We are very proud to say that despite the challenges Bella has remained resilient, fueled by the love and support from our family, friends, and her incredibly supportive boyfriend.

Bella has been on dialysis since she reached stage 5, and it strips the life out of her each time she goes. She's in dialysis for 3 hours a day 3 days a week and comes home and sleeps for another few hours after dialysis each day. She had to drop the classes she had started as a freshman in college and now takes reduced classes online. At 18 years old, sometimes we worry she is sleeping the most exciting time in her life away.

As of January 4th, 2024 she has been activated on the transplant list and has been waiting patiently for a call to rush to the hospital for a new kidney. Bella will likely need multiple transplants throughout her life. The cost of a kidney transplant is substantial, and while she has insurance, it doesn’t cover all of the expenses. From medical bills to post surgery care, the financial burden is overwhelming. This is where we humbly ask for your support. We have created this GoFundMe page to raise funds that will help cover the costs of the transplant and ensure a smoother recovery process.

Your generosity can make a world of difference giving Bella the chance to live a life free of the constraints of her current health challenges. Any contribution, no matter how small, will be a step forward into making this life saving procedure a reality. Additionally, your prayers, positive thoughts and shares of this campaign are equally as appreciated. We understand that times are tough for many but we appreciate you taking the time to read Bella’s story. Thank you for supporting her journey. Together we can make a profound impact and give Bella a second chance at life. Please share this campaign with your friends and family to help spread the word.

With gratitude,

Nick, Rachel, and Isabella Pray