Hi, my name is De’Shawn. I’m a 31-year-old father currently fighting kidney failure, and I’m doing everything I can to stay strong for my son.

When I was a child, I suffered lead poisoning that caused permanent scarring on my kidneys. For years I tried to live a normal life, but in April 2021, just days before my birthday, my health took a frightening turn. I was rushed to the hospital and diagnosed with kidney failure. Doctors told me that if I hadn’t come in when I did, I might not have survived the next two weeks.

Since then, my life has changed in ways I never expected. I’ve faced serious medical treatments, heart complications, job loss, and losing my insurance while trying to keep moving forward.

One of the hardest parts of this journey is that I’ve been going through it without the support system many people rely on. I’ve been estranged from my mother, father,and my 2 of 3 siblings for nearly two years. Facing a life-threatening illness while feeling alone has been one of the biggest emotional challenges I’ve ever experienced. Thank God for my sons mother & her mother

But I keep going because of my son.

My son is autistic, and he is the reason I fight every day to stay here and keep building a future. Like any parent, I want to give him opportunities, support, and moments of happiness. Right now, that’s been incredibly difficult while managing my health and financial setbacks.

I’m asking for help so I can continue taking care of my son and rebuilding stability while I work toward getting a kidney transplant.

Donations will help with:

• Tutoring and support services my son needs

• Small trips or toys that help him experience joy

• Medical and living expenses while I continue treatment

• Paying down debts that built up during my illness

Even the smallest amount — even $0.50 — truly helps. If you can’t donate, simply sharing this page could help it reach someone who can.

I’ve always tried to be the kind of person who would give someone my last dollar if they needed it. When I receive my transplant and get back on my feet, I promise to pay this kindness forward many times over to someone else who needs it.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for helping a father who is fighting to stay here for his son.