Help Me Live and Fight Kidney Disease

Hello, my name is Bill Masciantonio. I am a 63 year old man. I worked all my life as a plumbing contractor. I worked hard and I loved it. But as I got older, my health deteriorated. I became a diabetic with complications – retinopathy requiring injections in the eyes, neuropathy, nerve damage, and then eventually kidney failure requiring dialysis three times a week. But I am a fighter!

I need a kidney transplant. I am still young, so I am fighting for my life. I also recently had a heart attack. Unfortunately I have also developed spinal stenosis, making it very difficult to walk and do everyday activities, shopping, bathing. Taking care of myself is hard, but I press on.

The reason I am starting a Go Fund Me is that my Social Security disability check

doesn’t even cover my rent and associated bills. I’m in the red every month. I need help with medical bills and procedures. They are piling up. I am also in need of help with medical equipment such as grab bars, stair lift chair, plus funds for procedures not covered by insurance.

As I reflect back on my situation before I became ill, I lovingly took care of my mother who suffered from the exact same issues I suffer from today. Unfortunately she passed away from her complications. But all that has helped me learn what I have to do to push on with my care.

I was always the one to help out where I could, but now I have to reach out for help with groceries, medications and transportation costs that are too much for me. I do what I can to help myself and take care of what I can. I call myself a “professional patient” and do everything humanly possible to help myself with dialysis three times a week and countless doctor appointments to stay on top of my situation. It’s my goal to keep fighting for my health, get my mobility back, get a kidney transplant, and be a productive human being once again.

It is very humbling to have to ask for help, and from the bottom of heart and soul, I would be forever grateful and appreciative to all who could help me, and I would send much love and prayers to all who donate. As I said before, I am a fighter!! My story can be a successful story with my grit and determination and all of your help.

Forever optimistic and grateful,

Bill Masciantonio