Cooper is going to need a Kidney
Right now, a family has been dealing with the absolutely devastating news, “Your son has a very rare genetic kidney disease and not only that, he is considered a De Novo.” At just 7 years old, Cooper was suffering from bilateral kidney stones which were causing abdominal pain. After passing the stones, his urine test continued to be irregular. Months went by, no answers. Genetic testing was completed on the entire family. Cooper was diagnosed with Dent Disease Type 2. This was a very rare disease, found in less than 100 people in the world. De Novo meant that he developed the mutation on the gene spontaneously and is the first person in their family to have it. This is a genetic disease, which means each family line has its own mutation factor on the gene. This makes Cooper 1 of 1 in the world with his specific mutation of the disease. Because of the rarity of the disease, there are no clinical studies, trials, or cures. The treatment of symptoms, trying to take the best care of his kidneys and waiting for the day he will need a transplant is all that can be done.
This family’s life has changed forever.
Cooper is now 10 years old and every 6 months he undergoes a long series of testing and imaging to determine where he is at in his renal failure. At his last doctor’s visit, his family was told his disease appears to be more aggressive than others that have Dent Disease Type 2. In just one year he had declined an entire stage of renal failure. His family’s prayer is that it will slow down so that he can reach adulthood before needing a transplant. At this rate, it is not looking like he will. Cooper is going to need a kidney.
Live Donors are needed for the 100,000 + on the kidney transplant wait list. Are you the one? The one, who can bring hope and awareness to those battling chronic kidney disease? For each $2,000 raised, awareness can be available to a new community for those in need of a kidney transplant. These funds provide the ability to put the End the Wait movie in theatres across the country. Live donors will be asked to step up to end the kidney wait list. You could be the conduit through which someone receives life!
ETW clubs are needed nationwide as support groups for families facing chronic kidney disease. This can only be made possible with your help! Kidney disease is the 8th leading cause of death in the U.S. According to the National Kidney Foundation statistics, about 35.5 million Americans have chronic kidney disease. That is more than 1 in 7 (14%). About 9 in 10 adults do not know they have it. That’s 90 % that are unaware of their condition. 12 people die every day while on a waiting list for a kidney transplant. Every day matters – and today, you can be the reason someone feels hope again.
With Gratitude and Hope,
As we close this year, you have reminded us of the countless moments of kindness, resilience and generosity that has shaped our journey. Because of you, ETW has witnessed 12 lives either receive kidneys or been approved to receive kidneys as a result of our joint efforts. Hundreds more have stepped up to start the process to donate. Unfortunately, the work isn’t finished. The challenges ahead are real. You can make a difference. Your gift today will help start the new year off with hope for those in need of kidney transplants.
Please take a moment to make your year end gift before December 31st.
Together, we can ensure that the next chapter is filled with even more lives
changed for the better.
With heartfelt appreciation,
Randy Simpkins
ETW Founder/CEO
