In the heart of Vicksburg, the family of 5-year-old Ariana Ames is making an emotionally charged plea for a kidney donor. Born prematurely, Ariana entered the world under dire circumstances that have shaped her young life profoundly. She was one half of a set of twins, but tragically, her sibling did not survive due to complications with the umbilical cord. Ariana herself faced several early adversities, including a blood clot in her brain and incomplete kidney development, leading to a diagnosis of stage four chronic kidney disease.
Shannon, Ariana’s mother, recounts the moment doctors first indicated Ariana would require dialysis and ultimately a kidney transplant, a revelation she hoped would be postponed until her daughter’s teenage years. As reality sets in, the urgency of finding a donor becomes more palpable each day. The struggle to adapt to Ariana’s condition has been marked by restrictive everyday routines, limiting Ariana’s ability to engage in activities that are part of a typical childhood experience.
Despite these challenges, Ariana’s spirit remains unyielding. Her life is a testament to courage and hope as she navigates the limitations imposed by her condition. A child brimming with joy, she aspires to partake in simple pleasures like playing sports—a freedom currently out of reach due to the severity of her illness.
The family now faces a daunting wait, as the average waiting period for a kidney transplant can last between three to five years. Finding a compatible donor—aged 18 to 73 with an O positive blood type—is imperative. The community and potential donors are urged to assist in easing Ariana’s journey towards a healthier future.
