Tracy’s transplant

As we travel down the path of life we are often faced with obstacles. The way we handle these obstacles define who we are. Four years ago I discovered that I had polycystic kidney disease, also know as PKD. This has been a long journey with many ups and downs for my family, friends and myself. For anyone who has faced a disease that alters your life in so many ways my heart goes out to you. I have always tried to live my life to the fullest and to be a good person. I don't like to complain or rely on others. I am the type of person that would much rather give to others than take. As I have navigated through this disease I have learned patience and humility. I am truly amazed and blessed by all of the family and friends that have supported me and given their time and love with such grace. I require a machine that I am connected every night for 8-10 hours just to sustain life. I have to be honest that this scares me, but I remain diligent and resilient in my fight so that I may continue to live and contribute all that I have left to those that I love.

Four years ago I started on the path to meet all the requirements needed to be placed on the transplant list. With hope and perseverance I have finally conquered this obstacle and am overjoyed to announce that I am now on the national registry for a kidney. The transplant team at the University of Colorado has prepared me for the possible struggles coming in my life related to having a kidney transplant, and I am ready to face this challenge and start a new chapter in my life! I know that I cannot conquer this battle without help. Transplants are very costly and even though I have medical insurance there will be many medical bills from the surgery and medications post-transplant that insurance does not cover. Please consider helping in anyway you can so that I can have this life saving operation. Your kindness and gratitude will make all the difference in the world to me and my loved ones so that I may fight to live another day.