Heather Powell

LIVING Kidney DONOR NEEDED

I was diagnosed with CKD at 7 yrs old. It’s been a rough journey. Doctors told my parents I would not live to see my 8th birthday. However, at 45 yrs of age I believe we’ve proven them wrong! I missed out on a lot growing up, and it was always hard being known as the “sick” kid. I’ve endured numerous surgeries and procedures, years of dialysis and hospitalizations. I have strived to be seen as someone other than a sick person and fought hard through trials. I graduated with honors in high school and college, finished grad school to become a social worker. I went straight to work at the National Kidney Foundation of Arkansas to build programs, provide resources, and educate people on kidney health. I have tried to encourage, inspire, and bring hope to those around me as I work and volunteer in my community. In 2014 I lost the kidney my mom gave me. It lasted 10 yrs and it was a devastating blow. I have tried to work, as I always have, but I’ve had to resign this year (2018) due to several hospitalizations and complications. I consider this just an opportunity to get stronger and healthier as I wait for whatever the Lord has planned. I have been praying earnestly for another kidney so I can continue to help others and lead a full life. I am grateful for dialysis that keeps me alive, but I am down to my last access for dialysis. I have been told my time is limited, but the Lord holds the number of our days. I am grateful for my supportive family, friends, and church family as they help, pray, and encourage me to stay strong. I also know my Lord and Savior has a plan for my life, Jeremiah 29:11. I’ve had a rough beginning in 2018. I, however, will never give up and continue to earnestly pray for healing , guidance, and the right donor. I know my God is faithful and He holds me in the shadow of His wings. I know Him and am ready if He calls me home, but I also feel I have more to do in this world. I’ve survived much in this lifetime, but I am grateful for it as it has shaped me into the woman I am today.

I have been on dialysis for many years over my lifetime. I have done peritoneal and hemodialysis. I am currently doing home hemodialysis. It is time consuming, but it allows me to schedule dialysis around my life. I dialyize 3x a week for 3 1/2 hours. I have no room left on my arms for an access so I dialyze using a femoral catheter in my left leg. Dialysis is hard on me at times. I get headaches and a lot of saline (which we use to bleed back) makes me sick to my stomach. It wears me out so a lot of times I have to cancel my plans and rest. I consider those days when dialysis goes well to be a blessing. The kidney diet It is limiting too, but I do pretty well with it as I’ve grown up following the diet. I have to limit my fluid intake, but I’ve gotten use to that as well. I am grateful for dialysis as it keeps me alive. I realize not everyone has that opportunity. I follow my doctors orders and my lab work is usually really good. I’ve worked hard to keep as healthy as I can and follow my doctors instructions. My doctor, thankfully, is very supportive.

Living on dialysis is doable and I’m grateful I have that option. However, I am praying and longing for a transplant donor. There are no words to describe how a transplant can change your life. The freedom it brings is wonderful, and it’s like you never knew you felt that bad until you feel the difference of living with a kidney. I am seeking a donor for a transplant. I know it is a life-changing decision., but donation saves lives. The pool of donors is limited and I am a difficult match. I’ve nevet asked for, only prayed for a donor. I’m truly thankful this is now an option to use social media. You can find out a lot about donation by speaking with your doctor or on-line at reputable sources. I can tell you my mom, who was my donor in 2004 is still going strong. I had hoped her kidney would last a lifetime, unfortunately it only lasted the average of 10 years. I am grateful for those years and long for the freedom they brought me. Please consider donating. Thank you!

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