A Life Turned Upside Down

Hi. My name is Lori, and I am fundraising for assistance with my medical needs and living expenses. In 2015, I was diagnosed with FSGS (Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis), which is a rare disease that affects the filters in your kidneys. When these filters are scarred, they cannot filter your blood, leading to kidney damage and failure. I was put through five treatments over three years, only to have each one fail. The initial treatment was a hefty dose of steroids over a long period of time. This treatment damaged all my teeth. I had to have them all pulled and replaced with dentures. Also, the steroids caused the development of necrosis in my leg, and I had to have a complete hip replacement as a result. Each treatment came with its own side effects, some worse than others. Due to the failure of these treatments and my kidneys shutting down, I was put on dialysis in 2020. I go three times a week to be dialyzed, four hours each day. When my treatment is complete, I am left tired and lethargic, and I have difficulty getting motivated to do anything.

I am on 17 different medications and have been hospitalized almost a dozen times due to electrolytes getting out of wack; blood pressure issues; and access complications. Note: I have had five surgeries on my arm to declott and replace my access. As with all kidney patients, there are many different side effects. For me, I have electrolyte issues; my blood pressure bottoming out, which has caused me to fall 16 times in two months; and cramping of my hands (I can no longer participate in the making of crafts that I have done for years. Things like washing dishes, folding clothes, and writing are now challenging if not impossible for me.) I have a team of five doctors whom I must see on a regular basis, as well as have labs taken and testing, which is done often.

The kidney disease has changed my life completely. My foods are restricted; I have little to no energy; all organs in my body are regularly checked; the take-in of fluids must be at a minimum; I am constantly going to doctor appointments; and I can no longer function without the help of a home health care individual. I battle with depression as it is normal for ESRD (End Stage Renal Disease) patients. I drive; however, I have no vehicle and must use public transportation. This limits my ability to get out and live life.

I am on disability, which is the only form of income I have. Due to my extensive need for medical care as well as the rising cost of living, I am now unable to financially cover all of my costs. I am forced to choose between having a roof over my head and food on the table or continuing my medical treatments. If I eliminate my medical care, my disease will cause me to expire within a few weeks. I have two, beautiful, grown daughters and two wonderful grandsons I would like to see grow. It is my hope to be around for a long time, but I need help.

It's very difficult for me to do this; however, I am at a crossroads in my life. I would appreciate anything anyone can do to help me. If you cannot, I ask that you please keep me in your thoughts and prayers. Thank you for your time.

Sincerely,

Lori Littrell