Chel Is Getting A Kidney

I was diagnosed with Familial Juvenile Nephronophthisis when I was 2.5 years old. I thank God for what I have been able to accomplish thus far in my life. I was always an active child and dreamed of becoming a gymnast. When I turned 4, I began competitive gymnastics and competed for 8.5 years winning multiple first place and state titles. I decided to “retire” at the age of 11 at the end of my Level 9 season. I then went on to become a cheerleader in middle school and a competitive cheerleader in high school and college. Cheering at Columbus State University was one of the best things I have ever done. In my first 3 years of college, I finished in the top 4 for the National Co-Ed Partner Stunt competition and in my last year, placed 5th in the National All-Girl Partner Stunt competition. All 4 years, my team finished in the top 3 including the National Title in my final year. After graduating from college, I moved back home and shortly thereafter became pregnant. This news was scary for me because I thought that I would have many complications due to my kidney disease. Although I was considered a high-risk pregnancy, I was fortunate enough to have a healthy experience and in October of 2015, had my beautiful baby girl, Bevyn Ann. Having her is the best thing that has ever happened to me and I am so blessed to get to be the mom that I have always dreamt of being. Again, I thank God that I have beat all the odds and stayed as healthy as I have, but the time has come that I need a kidney transplant. I am not sick enough that I have had to go on dialysis yet, but my numbers have dropped drastically from where they have been stable for so many years. As of January 24, 2018, I was placed on the UNOS list for a kidney transplant.

With my PRA being 97, we were told it would be very difficult to find a compatible kidney, but luckily after 2 years, 3 months and 13 days our prayers have been answered!

I GOT THE CALL ON MAY 7, 2020 AT 3:07 PM THAT A KIDNEY HAS BEEN FOUND! MY TRANSPLANT IS SCHEDULED FOR 7:30 AM ON MAY 29, 2020!

I have been battling this condition my entire life and have waited until my most urgent need to reach out to my community, friends and family, but with the cost of medical expenses and life sustaining prescriptions being so high, I am now asking anyone who feels called to donate, to please do so. No amount is too small. The funds will be used for medical bills, prescriptions and care for myself and Bevyn while I am out of work.

Thank you in advance to anyone who is willing and able to help me and my Bevyn Ann during this time. Please continue to send your good thoughts and prayers my way. I appreciate everyone who has supported me so far in this journey... we still have a ways to go.

If you would like to continue following my story, please follow my Facebook page at www.facebook.com/chelneedsakidney .