Hi, my name is Jose Benites and I’m 25 years old. Recently, my life changed in ways I never expected when I was diagnosed with End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD), also known as kidney failure.

At such a young age, I now depend on dialysis to stay alive while I wait for upcoming surgeries and further treatment. Dialysis has been physically and emotionally exhausting, and it has made it difficult for me to work and live a normal life.

What makes this even harder is that I have small children who depend on me. Being a parent and going through this at the same time has been terrifying. More than anything, I want the opportunity to continue to be here for my kids, to watch them grow, to support them, and to be present in their lives.

Along with everything else, the medical bills have quickly become overwhelming: hospital stays, dialysis treatments, medications, and upcoming surgery costs. Even with insurance, the expenses continue to pile up.

I never imagined I would be in a position where I needed to ask for help, but right now I truly need it. Any donation, no matter how small, will go directly toward my medical bills and treatment, and will help give me a chance to keep fighting and be here for my family.

If you’re unable to donate, sharing this means just as much. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your support, prayers, and kindness during this difficult time.