Kristan Small

We never know what life has in store for us or what God’s plans for us are. Throughout, my life I have had many challenges and obstacles that I have overcome. I have devoted my life to advocating for children and families to overcome barriers to success. However, I myself am faced with a bigger challenge; I have been living with a deteriorating kidney condition that I was born with, called polycystic kidney disease. I have struggled with this over the last few years, as my condition has roller-cloistered with surgeries, many doctor appointments, tests etc. As a result of my condition I have about 17% of my kidney function left. I am blessed that I am not on dialysis at this time; however transplant is now imminent to my survival and continued quality of life.

Currently, I am on the transplant list at Emory Medical Center in Atlanta, Ga. Because of the extraordinary expense of transplantation, funding this life-saving operation is a monumental task. Despite having insurance, many of my medical needs will not be covered and must be paid out-of-pocket. I anticipate substantial uninsured costs upwards of $5000.00 such as the lifelong immunosuppressant medications; travel to and from the center and much more. This presents a challenge that I cannot meet alone.

To help offset my uninsured costs, a fundraising campaign in my honor has been established with HelpHOPELive, a nonprofit organization that has been assisting the transplant community for 30 years. All contributions are tax-deductible, are held in the Southeast Kidney Transplant Fund, and are administered by HelpHOPELive for transplant related expenses only. You can help make a difference in My Life. Please consider a contribution. No contribution is too small.

Thank you for any help you can give,

Kristan Small
[email protected]