Hi, my name is Shayla Isaacs, and the last chapter of my life has been something I never could have prepared for. I was born and raised on the island of Maui and at just 14 years old, I was diagnosed with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus(SLE) which eventually led to renal disease and failure. I have been on dialysis since 2021 and am currently working towards a kidney transplant.

Living with kidney failure and being on dialysis has changed everything. My days revolve around treatments, doctor appointments, and trying to find the energy to feel like myself again. Some days are manageable, and others are overwhelming in ways that are hard to put into words. It’s been physically exhausting, but also emotionally heavy in a way I didn’t expect.

Recently, I was listed for transplant at Queens Medical Center on Oahu and am still working to get listed at the Mayo Clinic Arizona. It’s something I’ve been hoping and waiting for, and at the same time, it brings a whole new wave of fear, uncertainty, and financial strain. I want so badly to move forward and get my life back, but the reality is that the costs surrounding dialysis, surgery, medications, and recovery are more than I can handle on my own.

On top of everything, there’s the reality that recovery will take time. Time where I won't be able to work, time where I’ll need to focus fully on healing, and time where I’ll still have bills and responsibilities that don’t pause.

As hard as it is for me to ask, I’m reaching out for help. Any support—whether it’s a donation, a share, or even just keeping me in your thoughts—means more than I can fully express. It gives me a sense of hope and reminds me that I’m not going through this alone.

This journey has been a wild, difficult ride, but I’m holding onto the hope of a healthier future. Please follow my instagram @shaylaneedsakidney for updates and a closer look into my day to day life. Also, if you or anyone you know is interested in learning about the living donor process or would like to test to see if you’d be match for me, you can visit my microsite at www.nkr.org/UHU495. Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for being part of it in any way.

Here’s a little cost breakdown so you can see exactly what your support will go towards:

Dialysis debt: $25,000 currently and counting

Life-long post-transplant medications: $600 monthly (average after insurance)

Anti-Viral meds (3-6months): $592.60 average monthly (IF insurance covers)

Hospital stay: $1600 copay

Surgery costs: could be upwards of $10,000

30 day minimum post-surgery stay (including lodging and food cost): anywhere between $5k-10,000

3 month minimum recovery time (no work or lifting more than 15lbs): at least $1,500 monthly for bills and food

My goal is to cover at least surgery and post-transplant costs. If I am able to cover some of my debt that would be AMAZING but also not a top priority...at this point, anything helps!