Hi! My name is Rica Llagas, also known as Ree. In 2018, we discovered that I had CKD, or Chronic Kidney Disease. At the time, we were not sure exactly what I had. It would not be until April of 2020 that I would get diagnosed with Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis or FSGS. To this day, we are unsure what caused my FSGS, if it is genetic, or if it has a chance of coming back. What we are sure of, however, is that I am now in end-stage renal failure.

On January 9 of 2026, my long-time nephrologist went over my most recent lab results with me and informed my mother and me that my kidneys are currently operating at about 15% capacity and that I would need a transplant as soon as possible. The last 2 months have been a whirlwind since then, but through the dedicated efforts of my care team, I am scheduled to get my kidney transplant on March 18 with my mother as my donor.

I have created this GoFundMe because, though I am fortunate enough to be insured, the average cost of a kidney transplant overall is in the $400-thousand mark. The surgery itself will cost thousands, not including all my pre- and post-transplantation appointment co-pays, labs, transportation costs, medications, post-operative care, and more.

My kidney transplant is just the beginning of a lifetime of care for having a new organ in my body. I hope to raise money to ease the financial burden that this has placed on my family and me, and to give my mom and me the chance to recover fully and comfortably with as little added stress as possible.

Whether or not you are able to give, all thoughts, prayers, and good vibes sent our way are so wholly appreciated. Thank you so much.