Hey folks, family, friends, and anyone who comes across this humble ask

Our family is about to embark on a significant medical journey as my mom, Mary, prepares to undergo a kidney transplant on March 10th.

Words cannot fully capture the gratitude we feel for the incredible gift of a living donor who stepped forward and turned out to be a match. This transplant truly feels like a second chance. An answered prayer.

After heart bypass surgery in 2023, her kidneys took a major hit, leading first to stage 4 kidney disease and then to stage 5 kidney failure. The last two and a half years have been a waiting game, navigating constantly changing medications, bi-weekly injections for low blood counts, numerous inpatient stays, and an increasing loss of independence, something that has always been central to who my mom is.

My mom has always been someone who shows up. She helped care for her own parents through their health journeys with steady love and dedication, and she has been that same constant presence for her two boys, her grandchildren, my dad, extended family, and friends. Caring for others is simply who she is. My dad has faithfully supported her as she has poured herself into the people she loves. Watching her live that way shaped the kind of person I wanted to be and ultimately led me to nursing. Being on the receiving end of significant medical care is new for her, but she is facing it with the same strength and grace she has always given to others.

As an oncology nurse, I see every day how meaningful it is when a community comes together to lift someone up in a moment of need. Now I find myself on the other side, asking for that same support for my own family.

While insurance covers much of the surgical cost, there are significant upfront and ongoing expenses related to transplant recovery, including medications, follow-up care, travel, and unforeseen costs that can add up quickly. So here I am, having not quite won the lottery or invented the next medical marvel, asking family, friends new and old, community members, strangers, and maybe even Taylor Swift, to give what you can if you can.

I’ll be honest, just writing this and putting this ask out into the world is a humbling experience. Thank you for taking the time to consider it. Every contribution, big or small, helps ease the financial burden on my parents as they navigate this next crucial year after transplant.

Most of all, we are grateful for your encouragement, prayers, and love as Mom steps into this new chapter.

With immense gratitude,

Kyle, on behalf of my Mom & Dad (Mary & Andy)