Not Surviving with Kidney Failure

My name is Jesse Hartsfield, and here is my story. Three weeks ago I  experienced paraylsis on the right side of my face and went into the ER to have them check it out. Fortunately the paralysis was caused by a temporary condition known as bells palsy which was remedied by steriods. However while I was in the ER the nurses discovered that my blood pressure was at a near fatal level of 215 over 120. As a result I was immedeately admitted into the ICU and was placed under constant observation. While in the ICU the doctors discovered that the high blood pressure was linked to severe stage 4 kidney failure otherwise known as Hyperkalemic Kidney Disease. My kidneys are functioning at 15%, leaking 3 grams of protein into my urine, and my potassium levels are at 5.8. For those of you who may not know what this is let me explain. Kidney disease is the most common cause of hyperkalemia. Your kidneys help control the balance of potassium in your body. If they do not work properly, they cannot filter extra potassium from the blood or remove it from the body.


The crazy thing is that I’m only 28 years old and besides my kidneys, I am an other wise healthy man. In November 2013, I moved to Houston, TX to begin work in my dream job as an International Flight Attendant. This opportunity has allowed me to see some incredible places while flying around the world and meeting amazing people along the way. Unfortunately, since my sudden diagnosis, I have had to stop flying as things are becoming more serious each day. Due to the fact that my kidneys are only functioning at 15%, the doctor’s have mentioned that there is a chance I may have to start dialysis or get a Kidney transplant. I am fortunate to have health insurance, but we all know that insurance does not cover everything. As such, I am having to pay a lot out of pocket and without being able to work, things are becoming rather difficult and I’m starting to lose hope. I've only just begun to live my life and achieve my dreams, so I am here asking if you could look into your heart to donate anything, even if it is a dollar. Every little bit will help! Thank you for taking the time to read my story and thank you in advance for any donations.