Pauliesha McKenzie- Urgent Kidney Transplant wait

Hi, My name is Amy. I am reaching our on behalf of Pauliesha McKenzie, a resilient 17-year-old First Nations woman from Maningrida, Arnhem Land, who urgently requires financial support due to a medical crisis.

Pauliesha was diagnosed with kidney disease at just 8 years old and has spent the last decade courageously battling her condition, enduring long hospital stays in Darwin and interstate. Two years ago, she was placed on peritoneal dialysis (PD), which she managed independently while completing year 12 in Kununurra - a remarkable achievement given her health challenges. At her graduation, she won two major awards, demonstrating her determination and strength.

In December 2024, Pauliesha moved back home to Maningrida, securing a job at the local school in preparation to study for a Bachelor of Education. However, just over a week ago, she was airlifted to Royal Darwin Hospital with two severe infections, leaving her critically ill. Pauliesha is now on Haemodialysis as her kidneys are no longer working, desperately waiting for a transplant. This treatment prevents her from returning home due to the lack of health facilities in remote areas and will need to stay close to a hospital until she receives a transplant.

As a result, Pauliesha has lost her income and is facing financial hardship. While patient travel will cover 8 weeks of medical accommodation upon her hospital discharge, she will need private accommodation afterward as she has no family here in Darwin to support her. A social worker is involved and is waiting to meet with a Case Manager from Mission Australia but time is critical.

Pauliesha has spent time in the intensive care unit in the past week and has been closely monitored due to Renal failure, which has also caused problems with her heart, now also being treated.

Pauliesha is seeking urgent financial assistance to support Pauliesha during this difficult time. Any help, guidance, or resources to secure stable accommodation and financial support would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you for your time and consideration. Please share on your social media platforms.

Kind Regards,

Amy