Natalie's Kidney Transplant

Last year in October, my sister was diagnosed with Nephronophthisis, a rare genetic disease of the kidneys. Currently, it is the most common cause of childhood kidney failure and was very unfortunately found in both of my sister's kidneys. During her diagnosis, we were dumbfounded that both kidneys were only functioning at 20% capacity. Today, her kidneys are functioning around 12%.

      The journey to Natalie's upcoming surgery has been filled with family and friends' prayers, as well as her own development of supernatural strength and trust that the will of God has no intention of harm. It has been difficult during the waiting which seems like endless doctor's appointments, injections, and medications, however, the mountain ahead is being conquered through  fervently praying for miracles and strength for our entire family. 

     I cannot adequately express the revelations and observances our family has encountered throughout praying healing into her body. Together, we have watched my sister cry because she had to begin injecting herself every night in order to grow. But we have also been able to walk beside her right into Children's Hospital of Atlanta, as she confidently built relationships with nurses during her blood drawings. We have watched her scarf down meals because she was so hungry from running from school to basketball and then to softball practice with energy that could burst through a wall. But we have also seen her come home, too tired to do anything and without appetite. Most importantly, we have watched her become a strong, resilient young woman, and obtain a deeper understanding of what it means to be intimate with the Holy Spirit.

    Not coincidentally, the doctors claim that Natalie's energy, attitude, and overall mental health are miraculous for someone that is at her current physical status. We know that she is not only a miracle, being able to be so spirited in the day to day life, but also finding her match was a miracle for our family. The first test donor in our family was perfect, which isn't normally the case for most children. Sergio, my  24 year old cousin, will be donating his kidney to my sister on the 5th of January, 2018. She will be in recovery for 6 weeks, and my cousin may be in recovery for more. 

    While this isn't a perfect start to the new year, it is a relief to know that Natalie will be able to have a healthy vital organ that will help her grow and become stronger during her adolescence and into her early adult years. Because of the severity of the disease and the medications that she will be required to take for the rest of her life/other transplant procedures, the expense is beyond what our family can handle alone.  Therefore, I would like to ask if anyone feels led, to think about donating what you can for my sister and my cousin.

     Regardless of whether you feel called to give financially, I would like to ask all of you who are able to read our story that you pray healing and prosperity to support my sister during this time. Pray that all anxiety, stress, and doubt ceases in our family and we are able to exude patience, peace, and love toward each other. Pray for her surgery on January 5th, that the Doctors are filled with wisdom and have careful hands. Bless their minds and their hearts, and let them see Christ in us. Pray for her moral and spirit as the date approaches. Pray for fear to cease. Pray that she is able to recover in the Lord's healthy timing and for my cousin's complete healing. Pray for my mom and dad. Pray that they draw close to the Lord's comfort and peace. Pray that I am able to be a light spirit to her, keeping her a priority during her recovery time. Pray for my cousin. Pray that he is able to see the Lord’s provision and blessing through his sacrifice and love.

   If all you can give is your prayers, we are satisfied because we understand that the Lord will provide for us within the ways in which He chooses. If you are able to give financially, we also bless you with every spirit of gratitude we have. Thank you for taking the time to hear our story! Please share as you feel led. Please give as you feel led.  We will keep you updated as the surgery approaches! Until then, blessings and a Merry Christmas to all!