As most of you know, over 12 years ago I was diagnosed with Systemic Lupus Erythemotosus, and shortly after I was also diagnosed Lupus Nephritis, both of which are autoimmune diseases that attack healthy cells and tissue in my body, particularly in my kidneys. For many years, I was treated with several medications to treat the effects of lupus. When I turned 23, however, the medication stopped working and over the next few years doctors tried multiple other medications to no avail.
In November 2014, I was admitted for a routine kidney biopsy. After a week in the hospital, my doctors discovered that the damage to my kidneys was severe and that the latest round of medications was no longer working. Subsequently, my health spiraled out of control. I had so many toxins in my body that I couldn’t eat and I slept almost the whole entire day. I was admitted for emergency dialysis and after four treatments, I felt like me again. With improved kidney function and major diet changes, I thankfully do not have to be on dialysis at this point. However, my doctors have told me that a kidney transplant is in my future and is the only cure for my condition.
Updates (2)
August 5, 2016
I haven't updated in a while. I know I should. It's hard to update when your body is behaving as normal as it possibly can. However, as of Thursday, June 4, 2016, a visit with my kidney doctor has revealed that my kidneys are once again declining as I am now at only 13% function. When I first did dialysis back in December 2014, I was admitted through the emergency room with 6-7% kidney function.
I am faced with the tough decision of implanting a fistula in my arm or a tube through my abdomen for dialysis; one will require three day visits to a dialysis center while the latter will give me the independence I desire but I feel will be even more difficult on me physically, mentally, and emotionally. I will be getting two IV infusions for iron because my levels have fallen below normal. The doctors and I have decided to do chemo one more time in October before committing to dialysis entirely. My hopes of a kidney transplant from either a live donor or deceased is showing little to no progress at all.
I'm exhausted today. I am tired of what's happening to my body and still not fully comprehending why this is happening. Of course, I understand what's happening but lately, I've been pondering how such a invisible disease can be so cruel.
Praying that I get better and I find the strength to keep smiling and laughing.
October 7, 2015
Hello everyone!
Thank you to everyone who has donated so far! I am so appreciative of each and every donation that comes through. I recently just had my first fundraiser, hosted by Robert World II of Semper Home Loans and Common Grounds Gaming. We had two video game tournaments: Ultra Street Fighter 4 and Super Smash Bros. Wii U. We also had an intense JENGA tournament and the winner is still to be determined between Ryan and Tommy!
There was a ton of participation in the raffle and everyone went home with their stomach's full! At the start of the fundraiser, I thought I would only walk away with about $500. However, my friends, family, and the most awesome community of gamers helped me raise $1434.00! I can't wait until the meter reflects what I have accumulated so far! Pictures will be up soon!
Guestbook
October 5, 2015
Wishing you all the health in the world Cindy! Hope this helps!
Lindsay W
October 1, 2015
Sending you love and positive vibes.
The Sumilangs
