In June 2025, our family’s world changed very unexpectedly when my mom, Janet, was diagnosed with stage 5 kidney disease. There were no obvious symptoms that would have made anyone think she was susceptible to kidney disease, and even now, her case has continued to surprise her doctors. What began as a shocking diagnosis quickly became a new reality for our family. By July 2025, Mom began dialysis. At first, we were told that because of her blood type, the wait for a kidney donor could be five years. Hearing that was overwhelming, but our family immediately jumped in without hesitation to be tested and see who could possibly be a match. My Aunt JoTerry went through the full testing process and has now been approved as Mom’s living kidney donor. Then, much to all of our surprise, the transplant surgery was scheduled for July 29. If you have met my mom or my aunt, you know they are both incredibly giving, selfless, and loving women. They are the type of people who show up for others without needing to be asked, and now we have the opportunity to show up for them. We created this page for anyone who has asked how they can help- as so many of you have. The weeks ahead will include a surgery for each of them, recovery, appointments, medications, meals, transportation, household needs, and support for our family as we navigate this next chapter together. Please do not feel any pressure to give. Your prayers, encouragement, messages, meals, gift cards, and support mean more than we can ever fully explain. Thank you for loving Janet, JoTerry, and our family so well.
A few important notes as we prepare for surgery and recovery: Janet’s expected hospital stay after transplant is approximately one week. JoTerry’s expected hospital stay as the donor is approximately 2 to 3 days. After Janet comes home, she will be immunocompromised because of the anti-rejection medications she will need to take. Because of this, she will not be able to go out in public for at least the first 30 days after transplant, and we will need to be extremely careful about limiting exposure to germs and illness. During this time, Janet will not be able to welcome many visitors, if any. As much as we know everyone wants to love on her and check in, the most important way to support her healing will be to help us protect her space, limit contact, and keep her environment as calm and healthy as possible. She also will not be able to drive, lift, or do many of her normal daily tasks during the first 30 days. Her activity will be very limited while her body heals and adjusts after surgery. We are so grateful for every message, prayer, meal, gift card, and offer of help. Even if visits are limited, your love and support will still be deeply felt.