A Miracle for Kim! End Stage Kidney Failure

Hi, my name is Kimberly, and I am reaching out to you with a heavy heart in hopes that I will find favor in your eyes. I have been fighting a long-term battle with diabetes, and it has taken a toll on my kidneys throughout the years. Even still, I remained proactive and did my best to combat the disease and aimed to win the war. Nevertheless, my efforts to do so were unsuccessful because my health has recently taken a turn for the worse! Sadly, I was newly diagnosed with end stage 5 kidney failure. This development has induced my ER visits and caused me to frequently be inpatient. During my last admittance, on 12/31/2023, my condition further declined. My eGFR level has dropped to 8. As a result, I was directly placed on dialysis. Although I am beyond thankful for this treatment option, it is only a temporary solution. In order for me to have a favorable and lasting outcome in this situation, it is imperative for me to receive a donor kidney! I am currently on the transplant list at the University of California Davis Medical Center (UCDMC), and my blood type is B positive. At this point, the gift of life that God gave me is in jeopardy and hanging in the balance.

While I’m waiting on a miracle, I am undergoing hemodialysis 3 days a week. I know that times are tough for many of us right now, and I’m not exempt from that category. Therefore, I must continue to work even during these trying times. Well, at least my overall objective is to remain employed as long as I’m physically able to do so. Regardless of my desires, I do recognize that my body is in complete control and calling all of the shots! Though I am prayerful and optimistic about speedily finding a kidney donor, I also realize the probability of doing so may exceed my anticipated, swift turnaround time. Likewise, I have come to understand that juggling a full-time job along with dialysis is not going to be an easy feat. So, the chances of me being forced into early retirement are definitely high, and it could happen sooner than I am financially prepared for! Consequently, I am also seeking monetary donations to help cover my looming expenses. Any amount will help, and every penny adds up.

On a personal note, I have spent the greater part of my life (35+ years) working as a medical technician. I was drawn to the medical field because I have a caring heart and a passion to help others. I absolutely love my job, and I will be devastated when the day comes that I have to retire! When I’m not taking care of my patients, I am busy studying and doing coursework because I am actively pursuing my BA degree in clinical laboratory science. The rest of my down time is spent loving and caring for my 3 little fur babies – Monkey, Shadow and Captain – as well as creating memories with my beloved family (mother, sisters, nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews).

I know my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, has me in the palm of his hands. Therefore, I will continue to fight the good fight of faith until He brings me to the other side of through! I vow to continue to walk by faith and not by sight because I know that God is in complete control. He can do all things but fail! So, I am going to remain encouraged, wait on the Lord, stand on His promises and trust His perfect timing! I am so grateful that I have God’s unchanging hands to hold onto, and I do not have to fight this battle or walk this journey alone. Thank you, Jesus, and thank you in advance for your prayers, compassion, sympathy and support.

In closing, I humbly ask if you are able to bless anyone this year that you please choose me. I pray that if you ever find yourself in need of a miracle or favor that you’ll receive it too. May God bless you!

Appreciatively,

Kimmie♥️

What is estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR)?

Your eGFR tells a lot about how well your kidneys are working. Your kidneys are important. They keep you healthy. They filter out waste and extra fluid from your blood, help make red blood cells, and keep your bones strong. When kidneys aren’t working well, wastes build up in your blood. Your bones can become weak. You may not have enough red blood cells for your body’s needs. Your eGFR number is a calculated measurement of how well your kidneys are working.

eGFR of 90 or higher is in the normal range:

https://www.kidney.org/sites/default/files/gfr_a_key_to_understanding.pdf

What is dialysis and how does it work?

Dialysis is a treatment for kidney failure that rids your body of unwanted toxins, waste products, and excess fluids by filtering your blood. When kidneys fail, your body may have difficulty cleaning your blood and keeping your system chemically balanced. Along with medication and proper care, dialysis can take the place of some kidney function and help you live longer.

https://www.freseniuskidneycare.com/treatment/dialysis

What is hemodialysis?

Hemodialysis is the most common type of dialysis. It uses a special machine to clean your blood. During hemodialysis, you’ll be connected to the machine by tubes. The machine will remove waste and extra fluid from your blood and then return clean blood to your body. This process usually takes about four hours, and you’ll need to do it at least three times a week. The good news is there are many at-home hemodialysis options available, so you may still maintain some degree of normalcy in your life. Some people on hemodialysis prefer doing their treatments overnight while they sleep.

https://khccares.com/blog/can-i-still-work-while-on-kidney-dialysis/