We are asking for your support as Vanessa faces one of the biggest challenges of her life – getting a kidney transplant and navigating recovery.

Vanessa has always been someone who works hard and pushes through; taking care of everyone around her but this process is not something she can do alone. It's her turn to be the one taken care of. Your donation- No matter the size- Will go directly toward transplant and recovery related expenses, helping Vanessa and her family focus on her healing- physically, mentally and emotionally instead of worrying about the crushing weight of finances.

This transplant isn’t just about surviving- it's about living! Once Vanessa is healthy and has a better quality of life she wants to:

Finish her schooling to become a wound care nurse.

Buy a home to create a safe, cozy and inviting environment to call her own.

Start a family and experience the blessing and joy of becoming a mother.

History:

Vanessa was diagnosed with kidney disease her sophomore year of high school after dealing with reoccurring urinary tract infections that were exacerbated by a history of urinary reflux (which was surgically fixed) and a PAX2 gene mutation that causes renal impairment.

Fast forward to April 2021 Vanessa begun dialysis after being notified that her kidneys were functioning at 15% or below; Vanessa continues to do dialysis daily to sustain her life. Being on dialysis however does not come without complications, a need for lifestyle changes, accommodations, and the need for new coping skills.

Why we need you help:

A kidney transplant is not just a surgery- it's an entire life changing journey. Both with/during the transplantation process and afterwards there will be...

Extensive medical bills- Not everything is fully covered by insurance. Max out of pocket still has to be paid.

Relocation costs- This is by far the biggest concern and struggle. Vanessa will need to stay close to the transplant hospital (Legacy Good Samaritan-Portland, Oregon) for 4-8 weeks following her discharge from the hospital for close daily monitoring and a multitude of appointments and labs. The average cost of the stay for those time frame(s) range from $3,000-$10,000.

Lost income- While Vanessa recovers, she will be unable to work for 90+ days. Though she will qualify for Oregon paid leave the system is not perfect and there are still delays as well as only receiving a portion of a person’s usual income. Vanessa does not have a reserve or the means to continue paying monthly bills while not working and waiting to get paid.

Basic living needs- See lost income. There will be small transportation costs, groceries during the stay (to avoid the high cost of eating out frequently), and support of required caregivers.

Medication costs- Anti rejection medications and other prescriptions to keep the transplanted kidney safe and healthy are LIFELONG and expensive!!

How you can help:

Donate if you’re able- every single dollar makes a difference.

Share this page with family, friends, coworkers, and social media.

Keep Vanessa in your thoughts and prayers as she navigates this journey.

Your support and kindness will not only aid in saving Vanessa’s life but also give her the chance to get back to the things she loves. This transplant is Vanessa's second chance at life!

Thank you for taking the time to read Vanessa’s story, for sharing, and supporting the fight for a quality of life.

“I want to live, not just survive”. -Vanessa