My journey with chronic kidney disease

I was born with a congenital kidney disease called Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD).

In my early 40s, my kidney function began to decline due to the progression of PKD, and I started dialysis when I was 45. Fortunately, our very dear sister-in-law Sharla Mendoza was a perfect match and chose to give me the best gift ever by donating one of her kidneys. Sharla’s kidney served me well for 11 ½ years and we are all so thankful.  The kidney transplant truly transformed my life.  I was never happier to enjoy the simple things again -- even mowing the yard!   The transplant allowed me to fully participate in life and, most importantly, to be engaged in my daughter Haley’s formative and teen years. Today, Haley is a Senior at Colorado State University studying Environmental Science & Sustainability.  My sister-in-law Sharla has had wonderful health since the transplant and is an inspiration to those considering being an organ donor.  She successfully balances being a mom to four wonderful boys, teaching elementary school, and enjoying life.  

Today, my kidney function is down to 10% and I am back on dialysis three nights a week for 4 hours.  I feel better the next day after treatments and I try to stay active. Unfortunately, dialysis is not ideal for long-term health given the on-going stress it places on the heart.  I am on the kidney transplant list (effective October 2022); however, it can take up to five years to receive a deceased organ in Colorado. In addition, my blood type is “O,” which means it may take even longer for a match.  Therefore, my hope, if God is willing, is to find my next hero ─ a living donor, which would provide me the best chance to live a full and healthy life. 

Anyone over the age of 18 who has good physical and mental health can be evaluated to be a kidney donor. There are a few conditions that may prevent you from donating a kidney including uncontrolled high blood pressure, diabetes, cancer, HIV, hepatitis, or acute infections. 

After completing a confidential online form indicating that you would like to discuss being a kidney donor, you will be contacted by a member of the Living Donor team at the University of Colorado Hospital (Rick’s transplant center). You do not need to live in Colorado to be a donor. In addition to walking, you through the donation process step-by-step, they will schedule you for a series of tests including:

• Blood typing (blood type is O+).

• Antigen testing.

• Blood tests to ensure that all your systems are healthy.

• An EKG to assess heart function.

• A chest Xray to assess lung function.

• Other tests as deemed necessary by the transplant center.

The testing process can take several months to complete. Much of the testing can be completed close to where you live, and all testing is covered by Rick’s insurance. If you need to travel to Colorado for any testing, our family will cover all travel expenses.