At the tender age of seven years old, I was diagnosed with several conditions which resulted in the loss of my right kidney. Years later, I had to begin dialysis because my left kidney had weakened, and I had developed Polycystic Kidney Disease. I started dialysis treatments three times a week for three hours a day. I ultimately had to have my left kidney removed. Soon after, I was diagnosed with congestive heart failure and had only ten percent of my heart function. I had to face the fact that I needed to be put on the heart transplant waiting list. In March 2011, my life changed forever. I received the wonderful news that I was getting a transplant. I was so happy! I started crying and called my mom because finally the wait was over and I felt that God had answered my prayers. I had been on the waiting list for a kidney for three years and a heart for four months since both organs had to come from the same donor.
I’m so grateful and blessed because now I can do so much more that I used to. I’m currently working as a keyholder at Dollar General. I love to line dance and spend time with my family. I would encourage everybody to become a donor and spread the word about organ donation because you could save someone’s life. I thank God and the person who gave me a second chance at life every day.
