Support Rochelle Leonard's Kidney Transplant Journey

Hi. My name is Rochelle Leonard. I am a single mom of three living in Talbot County on the Eastern Shore of Maryland. Two of the three still live at home, under my care. When I was twenty-eight years old, I was told my kidneys were failing. Shortly after, I began dialysis. To make things worse, I also began losing my eyesight. Today, I am fully blind and dependent on dialysis. I need a kidney. I have been waiting for a transplant for more than six years. Earlier this year, my name came up on the transplant list, and about two weeks ago, I was matched with a live donor. My surgery is scheduled for October 22nd. To say that I am excited and grateful would be an understatement. With that joy came a little uncertainty and concern. After speaking with my assigned social worker, she explained that I would be on between twenty and thirty different medications per day, monthly for at least the first year to help my body from rejecting the kidney. That said, she said there would be some meds that are covered in full, some that require a copay, and some that would require full payment out of pocket. I will also be expected to drive back and forth to the hospital once or twice per week. The transplant hospital is a ninety minute ride, each way. That ride consists of gas and tolls, in addition to meals while outside of the home. These expenses in addition to other medical expenses and household bills will add up quickly, and I am already on a fixed income. She explained that this sometimes causes undue stress and strain on already limited resources, causing the robbing Peter to pay Paul syndrome. She suggested that I create a GoFundMe page to get ahead of those stressful days. I'm a prideful person. To get such wonderful news only to have it smeared by the mist of reality really has me in my feelings. I believe that there is a higher power and ask that you keep me in your prayers. It's going to be a journey, and I am here for it all. This is my testimony. If you're able and have it in your spirit to support, please make a donation to assist my recovery efforts over the next year. My gratitude has no words. I am forever grateful. DONATE AND SHARE