KRISTA
NEEDS
A KIDNEY
Together we can make it happen
Krista has Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease. Known as ADPKD or PKD for short, it is an untreatable, genetic disease that causes numerous and sometimes large cysts to develop on the kidneys. These cysts cause the kidney to become enlarged, and impede their function. Eventually, the kidneys may fail and need to be replaced.
For Krista, that time is approaching quickly.
Who Is Krista?
I’ve always been a person who likes to help others, so asking others for help is difficult for me, but I realize that telling my story is necessary. I am 50 years old, married to my soulmate, and do work that brings me great joy. Essentially, I feel like I am in the prime of my life and am grateful for all the experiences that have brought me to this stage in life… but my kidneys are failing and I will need a kidney transplant very soon.
What Is Polycystic Kidney Disease?
“Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is a genetic condition marked by the growth of numerous cysts (fluid-filled sacs) in the kidneys. The cysts become larger and the kidneys enlarge along with them. Slowly, the kidneys lose their ability to filter waste from the blood, which leads to progressive loss of kidney function and eventually to kidney failure.”
(source: hopkinsmedicine.org)
Why Seek A Living Organ Donor?
Having a living donor transplant before needing dialysis increases the odds of transplant success and reduces the number of medical procedures I have to endure. A living donor kidney works faster and lasts longer on average than a deceased donor kidney. Also, if I am able to find a living donor, it takes me off the deceased donor waitlist, which means someone else can receive the deceased organ. Unfortunately, there are factors that prevent many of my immediate family from being a living donor – this is often the case with PKD since it is genetic and runs in families. So I am hopeful that I can find a living donor in extended family, friends, colleagues, or a complete stranger.
