A Central Texas man, Dustin Jones from Waco, is in need of a kidney transplant after undergoing major surgery to remove both kidneys due to polycystic kidney disease (PKD). PKD is an inherited disease that causes cysts to form in the kidneys, leading to kidney failure. Jones has been on dialysis three times a week for years, and the large cysts on his kidneys became too problematic, causing pain and further harm. Unfortunately, the wait for a kidney transplant could take years due to his blood type and the current waitlist of approximately 93,000 people. Jones’s daughter, Kylee, is urging the community to get tested in the hopes of finding a compatible kidney for her father.
In a heart-wrenching twist, Kylee was recently diagnosed with PKD herself. She empathizes with her father’s struggle and the toll that chronic illness takes on both physical and mental well-being. Despite this, she remains focused on supporting her father and finding a kidney donation that will save his life. The journey is ongoing for Jones, who is taking it day by day, eagerly anticipating a kidney transplant that would bring him the opportunity to live a normal life, spend time with his family, and engage in everyday activities. Those interested in supporting Dustin or donating a kidney to him can find more information on the Facebook group “Dustin’s Gift of Life.” Additional resources for helping loved ones with kidney donations can be found on the National Kidney Foundation’s website.
