My nephew, Nathan (aka Nay Nay), is a legend.
If you’ve ever met him, you know exactly what I mean. He’s magnetic. Big-hearted. Hilarious. The kind of kid who would rather hang out with adults, talk sports, debate the latest game, or tell you all about the Golden State Warriors. He loves video games, music, movies, and any chance to mix it up with “the guys.”
What you wouldn’t know just by looking at him is how much he has already overcome.
Since birth, Nathan has faced significant health and developmental challenges. He has worked tirelessly through years of PT, OT, speech therapy, specialist visits, medications — more appointments than most adults have in a lifetime. And through it all? He keeps showing up with joy. He keeps winning hearts. He keeps fighting.
In November 2025, our family received devastating news:
Nathan (12 years old) is already in Stage 4 chronic kidney disease, likely caused by a rare genetic condition called renal cystic dysplasia.
Right now, his kidneys are functioning at only about 25%.
Today, he feels okay. He’s still smiling. Still laughing. Still being Nay Nay. And we are so grateful for that.
But we know what’s coming.
His kidney function will continue to decline. When it drops to around 15%, he will need a kidney transplant. The goal is to receive a transplant before he requires dialysis — sparing him the physical toll and major life disruption that dialysis would bring.
We are praying fiercely that we can find a donor in time.
As my brother Jeff and sister-in-law Rachel walk this road — navigating specialists, transplant evaluations, travel, time off work, and the emotional weight of it all — they need a community around them.
This fundraiser will help cover:
- Ongoing specialist appointments and testing
- Transplant evaluation and preparation costs
- Travel and lodging for transplant-related care
- Lost income during hospital stays and recovery
- Post-transplant medications and follow-up care
- Other unforeseen expenses
Most of all, it will give them the ability to focus on Nathan — not the financial strain.
If you feel moved, we ask you to:
- Pray for Nathan and for a living donor match. (My brother is currently in the process of finding out if he is a match).
- Share this page.
- Give whatever you’re able.
No gift is too small. Every share matters.
Nathan has spent his whole life fighting uphill battles with courage and joy. Now it’s our turn to fight for him.
Thank you for loving our guy Nathan.
You can follow Nathan’s journey and updates here:
Organizer and beneficiary
Jeffrey Wright
Beneficiary