Suzanne is an amazing 51 year old woman who was diagnosed with a hereditary disease called polycystic kidney disease at the age of 21 and has been on dialysis for the past five years. Only a kidney transplant will free her from dialysis and return her to a good quality of life.
Suzanne inherited this disease from her mother who had six children of whom four were diagnosed. Sadly, Suzanne’s brother died from polycystic kidney disease at the age of 20, but Suzanne states it has made her stronger. Suzanne has had two heart surgeries, a kidney transplant from her sister that lasted for 13 years and a multitude of other health care issues relating to her illness. Suzanne is always optimistic despite her condition and has had to deal with the choice to not have children for fear that she will too pass on her trait as her siblings have experienced. Her nephew wanted to give his kidney and during the workup he was also found to have the polycystic kidney disease.
Updates (2)
December 8, 2014
Great news! Suzanne received the gift of life, a kidney transplant on November 9!
August 7, 2014
I want to thank you all for the kind and supportive thoughts and wishes. Knowing there are friends and family who are backing me helps me remain strong and determined to see this through. Having done this once before I feel prepared mentally. My five years on dialysis is draining and boring, hard to do or go anywhere. Excited to start a new life. Thank you all for making that happen for me.
Guestbook
July 14, 2014
Hi Suzanne, I work with your sister Melissa and she told us your story. I am praying and sending well wishes
Kim Hager
June 18, 2014
Hey Sly! Just wanted to let you know that you were in our prayers! Love, Joe and Bob
Joseph and Robert Persicketti
June 17, 2014
Oh Sue, I had no idea. As you know we lost Mom to PKD too and, thus far, only one of my six siblings has been diagnosed, thank God. We all know, painfully well, the misery of dialysis, heart troubles, and all the other associated woes of this bitch of a disease. I am so happy to help you out. My husband, Danny, is out of state working this week but, when he gets home, I will tell him about this opportunity to help a family member and we'll go from there. I am in deep prayer for you and the success of this fund raising effort -- for one of the BEST causes I can think of -- the health and future of a wonderful daughter of my Mama's sweet sister -- (God rest both their souls.) Sue, I applaud you for reaching out to others in your time of need with a humble spirit - and an inspiring will to live! There should be more of this kind of thing amongst us -- Good people helping good people. My very best to you. I'll be in touch. I'm so glad to know you again and have this contact. Love, Cousin Mel
Melanie Layne Hylton
