Crystalyn LaPierre

My name is Crystalyn LaPierre, and I am 57 years old. Most of my friends and family call me Cristy. I am single and live alone. When I was 20 years old, I had an infection that affected/damaged my kidneys. Back then, the doctors didn’t think it was safe for me to have children, and they also said one day when I got up in age that my kidneys would get worse and fail. Despite that, I did well and stayed in the early stages of kidney disease for many years. Not without some diet and medication restrictions, but I did well.     

Over the years, my kidney function has gradually gotten worse. My kidney function has dropped in the past two years, advancing me to stage 4. There are five stages of kidney disease. My doctor referred me to a local kidney transplant center here in SC to see if I qualify for a kidney transplant. After a few months and many tests, doctors’ appointments and procedures, I am approved to be on the kidney transplant list. I am so excited about this step!

I’m excited for many reasons, because I am still young and have a lot of life to live still. Also, although I could never have kids of my own, I enjoy spending time with my family. I have brothers, sisters, and nieces and nephews that I would like to continue to watch grow up. My youngest niece is only 3 ½ years old. I love going over and spending time with her, watching her play and learn. She is so sweet and adorable. I want to see her grow up to be the sweet young lady that I knew she would be.

My estimated wait time is 3-5 years for a transplant, because of a few factors, but mostly because of my blood type. Wait time varies from state to state and by blood type- mostly. The transplant center requires me to undergo certain tests that need to be performed yearly and a few every five years. This is to ensure that I am healthy enough to have the surgery, should a kidney become available earlier than the estimated waiting time.

My insurance only pays so much for these tests, so each year my bill gets higher and higher for what I owe. This is overwhelming.

Therefore, I am asking for donations. I am thankful for organizations like Help Hope Live so that people can get the word out and the help they need. 

Thank you

Cristy