Dannielle Baker

I’m Dannielle, and I’m asking for help as I face some of the hardest health challenges of my life. I have lived with type 1 diabetes since I was 10 years old, and now at 44, the complications have become overwhelming. Diabetes has led to stage 4 kidney failure, severe gastroparesis, chronic pain, hypertension, retinal bleeding, ulcers, vomiting blood, blood transfusions, and repeated hospital stays. Some days I feel like I’m living in a 65-year-old body. Even when the sun is shining and it’s a beautiful day outside, I’m often so exhausted that I can’t get out of bed. My doctors are preparing to refer me in October to the University of Cincinnati for a pancreas and kidney transplant evaluation, and I’m holding onto hope that this could change my future. This journey comes with so many costs that my disability income simply cannot cover. The funds raised will help with prescription copays, gas for long trips to doctors and hospitals, hotel stays during evaluation appointments, food that fits my medical diet, and diabetes-related supplies I have to pay for out of pocket, like alcohol wipes and skin care products for injections and my CGM. It will also help me get the dental care I need before I can even be placed on the transplant list. If you are able to give, share, or keep me in your prayers, it would mean the world to me. I just want the chance to feel better again, and any support would be truly life-changing.