Ricky is about to be 27 next month, and he’s already had an incredibly eventful life. Unfortunately, a lot of his excitement has come from medical needs. Ricky has been diagnosed with not one, but two, genetic diseases – which, as an added bonus, are not related. At the ripe age of 2, Ricky was diagnosed with FAP (Familial Adenomatous Polyposis). This is a very rare, inherited genetic disorder that causes hundreds to thousands of polyps to form in the large intestine and rectum. Though these polyps start as non-cancerous growths, ongoing removal and/or surgery is needed to avoid definite cancer developing in the future. Ricky was retested and reverified at the age of 10 for this condition. He received colonoscopies yearly, and then finally had to have his colon removed in February of last year. The surgery was successful in removing the colon, and he is currently stable.

Approximately 3-4 years ago, Ricky was diagnosed with his second genetic condition, Polycystic Kidney Disease. This condition, not related to the FAP, develops multiple growths within the kidney(s) itself. This is a more difficult kidney concern, as typically cysts will grow on the outside of the kidney that may be removed. This is not the case with Ricky’s condition. Typically, with PKD, there is a decline of the kidney(s) and need for transplant after several years – usually in one’s 40s. HOWEVER, with Ricky’s FAP and surgery, an unfortunate side effect is accelerating the kidney disease. He is now on daily dialysis with a need for a full transplant. He is currently approved for a waitlist, but time is unknown.

As you can imagine, working at this time is not an option. The family is currently working on his disability acceptance, but as anyone who has dealt with that sect, it can take quite a long time, and funds are still needed in the interim for ongoing medical bills, household utilities, and day-to-day needs. Please consider donating on Ricky’s behalf. There is no amount too small, and it would help immensely to allow for Ricky and his family to focus on his health. Please also consider sharing his story. He’s a young man going through a lot right now, and one share may make a world on difference.