Donate to Keep Jackson Smiling and to Avoid Hangry Jackson

As most of our family and friends know, after several years of doctors, hospital visits, and uncertainty, Jackson was diagnosed with the rare and genetic disease of cystinosis at the age of five. Since 2016, we have known that Jackson would eventually need a kidney transplant. Cystinosis affects every organ and tissue in the body as cystine crystals build up and wreak havoc. Kidneys are typically the first organ to break down in cystinosis patients.

While a kidney transplant will not cure cystinosis, the transplant will make Jackson feel MUCH better and will eliminate several medications and supplements from Jackson's daily regiment.

We are extremely fortunate that after a lot of tests and appointments, Jackson's dad, Nelson, is able to donate one of his kidneys to Jackson!!! On Tuesday October 29, 2024 Jackson and Nelson will have their transplant surgeries in Boston.

There are many hospital days ahead for Jackson and me. I will be staying with Jackson in the hospital for at least ten days, or until Jackson is stable and safe to finish his recovery at home.

Many people have asked how they can help us out or what they can do for our family during this stressful time.

Well...one thing that everyone knows about Jackson is how much he is OBSESSED with food. There will be lots of takeout and Door Dash over the next few weeks. If you are interested in donating to this GoFundMe, then you are giving Jackson the gift of food in the coming weeks. Money donated will be used for meals and snacks as a gift from you to Jackson. This gift will ultimately help us all when Jackson gets hangry!