Summary: Dear Johnny, My name is Amber and I’m a 42 year old single mother of 3 and I’m also a dialysis patient. I have had hereditary kidney trouble since the age of 9 (IGA nephropathy). At the age of 26 my kidney began to shut down and I had to start dialysis (3 times a week for 7 years). In 2014, I was finally able to get a donor and for 6 years life was great. In 2020, I went to work one morning and I didn’t feel well. I just didn’t feel right. I was rushed to the hospital and after testing doctors found that my donor kidney was failing. At that point I had to go back on dialysis 3 times per week for 3 ½ hours per session. I have so much scar tissue up and down my arms from all of the needle pokes and it’s all so draining and time consuming. It can be painful and physically exhausting. I have kept working 4 days a week and I stay late if I can to get more hours or take extra shifts. When I’m not working or at dialysis I sleep a lot to try and recover. I am awaiting testing for my heart to see if it’s safe to go back on the donor list. The only way I can afford to live is by sharing a place with my 2 daughters (ages 20 and 16) and they help take care of me as best they can. I also have a son, but he lives in Hayes, KS. With all of the testing and doctor’s appointments and dialysis I’ve fallen behind on some bills. I do my best but sometimes it just isn’t enough. I pray that you can help me and I thank you for reading my letter. Sincerely, Amber Who Helped: Brad, Levi, RJ, Kyle, Lisa, Justin, Dean & Pipefitters 533, Cosentino’s How You Helped: 2 months rent, 2 months gas & electric bills, $1000 in groceries
