Renee's medical season

Hello, I'm not one to share my personal story easily, especially my medical issues. This is very hard for me to share but I know it’s time to put it out there. It's been a rough year, and due to unforeseen circumstances beyond my control, I've found myself being solely responsible financially. In January of this year I was in and out of the hospital and was diagnosed with Stage 3 Kidney disease, an Autoimmune disorder possibly with some kind of link to Lupus, and Severe Anemia (having had 3 blood transfusions). This is on top of Type 1 Diabetes, Gastropareses, and Hypothyroidism. In March, after another specialist appointment I found out I had several growths in my uterus and had my first surgery, to remove the growths (non- cancerous) and an Endometrial ablation (to help with my red blood cell count). In April, I found myself back in the hospital but this time on Kidney dialysis (Now stage 4) and diagnosed with Congestive Heart Failure as well. I was told by my doctors that dialysis won't last long for me that my kidneys were in bad shape and a transplant was definitely in my near future. My heart sank.

Unfortunately, with Kidney disease comes a lot of complications. Not only do I feel sick all the time, but I'm constantly weak and have lost a lot of strength in my legs. There are times I can't even walk up stairs. I have continued to work as much as possible because I still have rent and bills to pay. But, I have now been told by my doctors that, that is not an option. They need me to be strong enough to take care of myself. And working is doing more harm than good. Both of my jobs have me on my feet quite a bit, and by the end of the work day my legs are swollen and feel like pillars. I can barely get into my car to drive home. I spend most evenings with my legs up to bring down the swelling.

As much as I didn't want to do this, and at my doctors request, I have applied for disability at the age of 37. I'm not proud, but I know it’s what I have to do in this season of my life to get better. Because I'm in the waiting game, I've found myself not being able to afford all my bills. Rent, electricity, food, personal items and medical expenses. I have medical insurance, but as we all know that does not include everything.

Since January I have struggled to pay my bills and keep afloat as I've been in the hospital a few times for several days and sick since then.

As of June, I only have one part time job that maybe gives me a few hours a week, just enough to keep me active so I don't lose my position. I'm asking for just enough to get me by for the next few months while I wait to hear from Disability.

I'm here in Indiana by myself with no family because of a failed marriage (not my choice). I have amazing doctors who are all on my side and are getting to the bottom of what is going on. I have an amazing church family and absolutely fabulous friends who are VERY supportive. Most of all I have an amazing God who forever holds me in His hands. He has a plan for me. I'm still here for a reason.

Any kind of help to get me through this season would be so greatly appreciated. Again, I know the Lord has a plan and I want make sure He is glorified through all of this! Would you pray with me and stand beside me as I fight this disease!