I have been on the kidney transplant list for two and a half years. I still have a hard time talking about it because I am afraid that people will feel I am pressuring them into donating if I share my story.
Three years ago when my doctor told me it was about time to start dialysis, I was very upset. I had watched my mother and aunts go through so much pain as they lived with polycystic kidney disease and hemodialysis and now I was facing the same future. I have now been doing peritoneal dialysis for two years.
In the beginning, I didn’t want to share my situation with anyone except immediate family. I didn’t want people to feel sorry for me. I finally opened up to my pastor, Roger Graham, at Nazareth Baptist Church. Once I opened up to my church family though, I felt like a weight had been lifted from my shoulders. I know it was from all the love, prayers and support that I received and continue to receive from them.
They are such a source of strength for me. My family and co-workers also have been so supportive. My husband, Eddie, and daughter, Brandy Byrum, are always there to help in any way possible.
At first, I thought finding someone willing to donate would be the hardest part of this journey. But since then, more than 10 people have offered to be my donor. I now know the hard part is finding a match.
I try not to dwell on the daily routine of the dialysis and waiting for a kidney. I know that things will happen in God’s time and I know His plan is better for me than anything I could hope for (Jer. 29:11).
My main prayer is that God will use me and my situation to help others. I can’t complain about my situation because I am so blessed and grateful for each day that I have.
Paula Nance
Fyffe, Ala.
Share with others: