The day we have prayed for is upon us, Dakota, my sweet nephew is on the receiving end of the miracle that is organ donation. Dakota has fought the hell that is Type 1 Diabetes for more than half of his life. This disease has stolen SO MUCH from him, but not his fight. Not his ability to give the kind of unconditional love that leaves a person better than he found them. Not his sweet smile, or humor, even though suffering has been so very heavy these last few years. He has been on dialysis both in clinic and at home. He has been in and out of ambulances, hospitals, and waiting rooms. He is the strongest young man I know, and I’m blessed to be his aunt (understatement.)

We are asking for support as their family walks through this major medical journey. Dakota is undergoing a kidney and pancreas transplant at this very moment, and we are incredibly grateful for this life-saving gift. Words cannot begin to describe or define this level gratitude.

The road to recovery will come with significant challenges.

His mom, Nicole and his father, Corey, will be traveling to and from Madison from Twin Lakes for his current care, and many more appointments in the near future. The next ten days are full of healing, and intensive training provided at the hospital as it pertains to living as a transplant patient. What to watch for, medicine and dosage schedules, the gist of what his new normal will look like and require.

We anticipate expenses for hotel stays, meals for Nicole while staying in Madison, and also the upcoming living costs for Dakota while he recovers and is unable to work. Nicole and Corey will not be able to work for an unforeseen amount of time, which can feel like a tremendous burden. Let us help them however we are able. Let us rally around them and help lift that burden as they care for their brave and courageous son.

Any support—prayers, donations, or simply sharing this message—means more to them than they can express.

Thank you for standing with our family during this time. ❤️