Heather's Health Journey

11 years ago, my wife Heather was pregnant with our  son. She had complications throughout the pregnancy, but doctors were unable to identify the cause. A year later, Heather was diagnosed with kidney disease and was in desperate need of a transplant.

Three years had passed without a transplant.  Heather began dialysis treatments that same year to help her kidneys function properly. She has been on dialysis for 7 years. She has had a number of surgeries, which takes a toll on her mental and physical well-being. Heather has been unable to work since 2010.

In addition to the kidney failure, Heather has been recently diagnosed with Calciphylaxis. This is a very rare and serious disease in which calcium accumulates in small blood vessels of the fat and skin tissues. It causes blood clots, skin ulcers, and infections that can lead to death. Calciphylaxis is often found in people that are experiencing end-stage kidney failure.

Due to the diagnoses, Heather is no longer on the list to receive a transplant. She is currently confined to a wheelchair, and we will need to install ramps at our home. Heather is continuing dialysis and beginning therapeutic ultrasound treatments to help with the pain. However, there is no cure, and the prognosis is poor.

Heather and I began a Facebook group called Calciphylaxis Worldwide . Our goal is to bring awareness to the disease and create a support network for families affected by the disease. It has been positive for us to assist others and share our struggles with this condition.

Caring for Heather has become my full-time job. With multiple appointments and treatments a week, and caring for my two children, I have been unable to work since September 2020. Throughout this difficult time, we have been blessed to have support from my friends at Baker’s Waterproofing and my church family at Spirit Chapel in Elizabeth, but it has taken a huge toll on our family. Your support, love, and prayer would be greatly appreciated.