Kirsten Lunding

Julia Aronson Needs A LIVING Kidney DONOR

Julia has been my best friend since I was 14 years old, honestly I feel like the term “best friend” doesn’t even begin to describe what she is. When I tell you that she has never let Lupus define who she is, I mean it. She has been inspiring, supportive and loving to all of those around her while many did not know she was suffering. In 2017 Julia was diagnosed with Lupus Nephritis, and none of us expected that she would be in this situation so soon. I’m beyond proud of her for how she has handled everything that has come her way, but the fact she’s been able to manage this does not mean this is any way for her to live.

Saying that I haven’t noticed kidney failure affect Julia’s life would be a complete lie. Due to her condition Julia is quite literally unable to do any of the things she loves in life. She spent her 30th birthday in the hospital, which is not a way anyone should have to spend it. The past few years Julia has missed out on traveling, she now cannot ride or really be around the animals she loves due to infection risk . A transplant for Julia would mean actually giving her the ability to LIVE. A transplant would also mean that Julia could live more independently, kidney failure causes brain fog and so Julia now lives a life dependent on others. Anyone who knows Julia knows that it’s extremely hard for her, and no one should have to feel trapped like she does.

I’ve shared Julia’s story on my own Facebook and shared her Instagram account @haute_hemodialysis numerous times. I’m unfortunately not eligible to donate a kidney to Julia due to my own underlying conditions. While you may not be able to donate…it could be that someone you know is, or that there is a match situation possible. Getting Julia a living donor greatly increase the chances for success, and also gives her back the ability to live a life that has been taken away from her.

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