Almost six years ago, my life changed in a way I never could have imagined. I was diagnosed with a rare, incurable kidney disease called Membranous Nephropathy. At the time, my body was struggling in ways I couldn’t see—I was losing an extreme amount of protein and my kidneys were no longer filtering waste the way they should.

Since then, this journey has been filled with highs and lows—moments of hope, followed by setbacks that have tested my strength in every way. I’ve experienced partial remission, only to face relapses. I’ve gone through countless medications, treatments, and even chemotherapy. Through it all, I’ve kept going—for my children, who mean everything to me.

But now, I’m facing another difficult chapter.

After seven months of partial remission, my disease has come back—stronger and more aggressive. The antibody responsible for my condition has returned, and recent testing has confirmed that I’ll need to begin another intense round of treatment. This includes a new kidney biopsy, followed by high-dose prednisone and multiple rounds of IV chemotherapy—long, exhausting infusions that will take a toll not just physically, but emotionally and financially as well.

As a single mom and a high school teacher, I’ve always done everything I can to provide for my family. For years, I’ve worked multiple jobs just to make ends meet. Even now, I plan to continue showing up for my students—they give me purpose and strength—but during treatment, I will lose a significant portion of my income. Because my immune system will be so compromised, I won’t be able to continue driving and working additional jobs like I usually do.

The reality is overwhelming. Between medical bills, treatments, medications, and everyday living expenses like housing, utilities, food, and gas, the financial strain has become incredibly heavy—especially now that I’ve run out of paid time off and will lose income each day I need to focus on my health.

And yet, even in the middle of this storm, I’ve been given something beautiful to hold onto.

In about seven months, I will become a grandmother.

My children have always been my reason to keep fighting—but now, I have a grandbaby on the way, and that brings a whole new sense of purpose and hope to this journey. I want to be here. I want to be present. I want to be strong enough to hold that baby and be part of their life.

So today, I’m humbly asking for help.

If you’re able, I would be deeply grateful for any support—whether that’s through a donation, sharing this page, or simply keeping me in your thoughts and prayers. Every bit of kindness helps lighten the burden and allows me to focus on what matters most: fighting this disease and being here for my family and students.

All donations will go directly toward medical expenses, treatments, medications, and the basic needs that keep our household going during this challenging time—and help us prepare to welcome our newest little blessing.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for taking the time to read my story, for your love, your support, and for standing with me in this fight.

With love,

Leslie Roddy