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2nd Kidney Transplant Won't Stop Me

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Hello my name is Derek Simmons Jr. I am 27 years old and currently awaiting a 2nd kidney transplant. At the age of 10 I was diagnosed with a kidney disease which became worse over the years. Being so young at the time, this was a lot for me. This change affected and limited things I could do. After trying so many different medications as well as numerous other things, it was determined that my kidneys were failing. In February of 2006 I had to go on dialysis. After being on dialysis for a good amount of my Junior year in HS, my kidneys completely failed and had to be removed causing me to need a transplant. With much prayer, family, and friend support, I was blessed enough to find a perfect match for a kidney. My father, Derek Simmons Sr. On July 12, 2006 I had a kidney transplant at St. Barnabas Hospital. After 6 other surgeries I was finally released from the hospital on August 26, 2006. This new kidney lasted me 9 and a half years and then the unthinkable happened.
        After receiving a full time job at Overlook Medical Center in February of 2015, a few months in, I was able to get my own health insurance. Unfortunately, the insurance didn't cover one of my medications so I had to switch to a generic brand. Following the switch, I went for my regular checkup about 5 months later and it was determined that my new kidney was in rejection. Things started going downhill fast and I had to eventually go back on dialysis, as well as have a few other procedures. So the current situation is that I need another kidney.
        Those of you who know me well, know that I'm not one to complain nor ask for much. However, right now my family and I are going through a situation where right now we are in need. I know I have been in so many peoples thoughts and prayers and I could never in words express how thankful I am. It is greatly appreciated. Currently, I have not been working due to my health situation. Although I was a full time worker, I had only been in that position for a little amount of time so I did not qualify for long term disability. So currently I am not receiving any earnings. My insurance covers 80% of all medical expenses. That may sound like a lot, but when dealing with hundreds of thousands of dollars in bills, the prices add up. After my transplant, which will be on June 29, 2016, I will have at least a 3 month recovery period where I will be unable to work. I have already started receiving medical bills and most of them are overwhelming. I am asking that you please donate any amount you can. Nothing is too big or too small. I will be appreciative for anything. Whatever is donated will strictly be used to help with my medical situation, bills, and any other medical expenses (blood/lab work, co-pays, etc). I want to thank you all in advance, and would also like to ask that you keep me in your prayers as I go through this process for the second time.
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Donations 

  • Joe Bianco
    • $20 
    • 7 yrs
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Organizer

Derek Dialysus Simmons
Organizer
Perth Amboy, NJ

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