Shanna-Kay’s Kidney & Pancreas Journey

My name is Shanna-Kay A. James, and I have been struggling with a rare disorder called "Maturity Onset Diabetes of the Young" (MODY) since the age of 11. Growing up, I just wanted to be like everyone else. I never fully understood the severity of the chronic illness that I have, and ultimately, I went into kidney failure at the age of 24 when I gave birth to my son Journey. I have been listed for combined kidney and pancreas transplant for over three years but have not had any matches so far. My doctors tell me that because of how far advanced my disease is, getting a kidney alone is an option and that the BEST option would be a living donor since these kidneys last longer. I am hoping that you or someone you know will consider getting tested to see if you can be a donor for me, but mostly for my son, Journey, who is 5 years old and needs his mother! At the time of my pregnancy, many professionals told me that having Journey would worsen my disease but I would not change my decision to have him...If I had to go through this again, I would make the same choice! Please consider getting tested to see if you could be a match for me and for Journey who needs to grow up with a mother! If you are interested in becoming a kidney donor or  know someone who would like to help you can send a message via email to [email redacted] . Thank You  ❤️

To My Son 

I want you to believe deep in your heart that 

You’re capable of achieving anything you put your mind to.

That you will never lose, You either win or learn.

Just go forth and aim for the skies! 

I can’t promise to be here for the rest of your life but, I can promise to love you for the rest of mine! 

Love, Mom ❤️❤️