Support Thyatrice's Kidney Transplant Journey

Friends, family, compassionate strangers,

I stand before you today with a heart full of hope, but also with a pressing need. My name is Thyatrice Starling-Shaw, and I am facing a significant health challenge: end-stage kidney disease. For 9 years, my kidneys have been failing, and I’ve been waiting on the transplant list, and despite the best efforts of my medical team, the time has come for a kidney transplant.

This life-saving procedure offers me the chance to reclaim my health, to live a full and active life, to continue cherishing moments with my loved ones. It's a chance to be present – truly present – in the lives of the people I care about most.

However, the journey to a successful kidney transplant is not just a medical one; it's also a significant financial one. While my insurance will cover some of the costs, there are many substantial expenses that I simply cannot manage alone.

These include:

* The cost of the transplant surgery itself: Even with insurance, significant co-pays and deductibles remain.

* Post-transplant medications: These life-sustaining drugs are crucial to prevent rejection of the new kidney and can be incredibly expensive, often for the rest of my life.

* Travel and accommodation expenses: Regular trips to the transplant center, which may be some distance from my home here in Houston, Tx, are necessary for evaluations, the surgery itself, and crucial follow-up appointments. This includes travel for my dedicated caregiver as well.

* Other unforeseen medical expenses: As with any major medical procedure, unexpected costs can arise.

Facing these financial burdens on top of the emotional and physical toll of kidney disease can feel overwhelming. That's why I am reaching out to you today, humbly asking for your support.

Every single contribution, no matter the size, will make a tangible difference in my journey towards a healthier future. Your generosity will directly alleviate the financial stress associated with this life-saving procedure, allowing me to focus on healing and recovery.

You can help me by:

* Making a monetary donation: Any amount you can contribute will be deeply appreciated and will go directly towards the expenses associated with my transplant.

* Spreading the word: Please share my story with your friends, family, and colleagues. The more people who hear my plea, the greater the chance of reaching my fundraising goal.

* Offering your prayers and positive thoughts: Your emotional support means the world to me and my family during this challenging time.

I understand that everyone has their own commitments and financial situations. If you are unable to contribute financially, your support in sharing my story and keeping me in your thoughts is equally valuable.

I am filled with gratitude for the love and support I have already received from so many of you. Your kindness gives me strength and hope as I face this next chapter. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for considering my request and for being a part of my journey towards a healthier future.

With sincere gratitude,

Thyatrice Starling-Shaw