Me at the Beach |
Welcome to Kidney for Caleb. As you might have guessed, this website is all about me, Caleb. I am now 10 years old and I was born in 2001. I enjoy comic books and sports and I love to write, especially about my struggles.
My Mom and I Before the Transplant |
I started dialysis at Children's National Medical Center (in DC) in April of 2011. I go to dialysis three days a week. And now we need to find a compatible (O blood type) kidney for me. Thank you so much to all that have tested already. Many of my family members and friends who are O blood type have tested; however, they have antigens that I have a sensitivity to. What that means is that my antibodies will cause me to reject their kidneys because I have a sensitivity to them. I am considered a highly sensitized patient. And from what my parents have learned, I could go years on dialysis before I have a compatible kidney.
So the more people that volunteer to be tested the better chances I have of finding a kidney soon. All it takes is a simple blood test. They will confirm that you are O blood type and then they will check for the antigens to which I am sensitive.
I understand that it takes tons of courage to volunteer to donate such a vital organ. But you can ask my mom, you only need one kidney. She is doing just fine with her one kidney. Your two kidneys together provide 100% of the kidney function that your body needs. However, when someone who has two healthy kidneys donates one, the other kidney provides the 100% function that you need. Isn't it awesome that our bodies are created to be able to provide such a miracle to help others.
Me in My Halloween Costume |
Okay that is enough from me. If you have any questions or are at least willing to get tested please feel free to call:
Calin Fitzpatrick
Transplant Coordinator
Georgetown University Hospital
202-444-1130
Joann Palmer
Transplant Coordinator
Children's Hospital of Philadelphia
215-
Renee Shumate
Transplant Coordinator
Johns Hopkins Hospital
410-955-1247
Me and My Dad |
I am registered at different hospitals to increase my chances of finding the right kidney for me.
We really hope we find a kidney for me soon.