Introduction

About this blog- it's a hard for someone who doesn't usually do this sort of thing to write a blog.  Neither Patrick nor I (his sister, Kate) currently have a facebook account.  And these days, the internet is the best resource for keeping in touch with friends and family, and for sharing information.  Writing this blog is a way to use the "social network" and be in the loop with others.  Please follow and share, post comments. There have been so many changes and events in Patrick's health since September that it's been hard to follow and keep track. The more communication on this post the better.  All of your insights, questions, ideas, support, and love are welcome!  Anything that Patrick wants to share or needs can be posted here too.  For example if a new kidney is needed, someone reading this blog might just be a match.

There is no way for anyone to know what will happen in the future, the best we can do is be aware of what is going on in the moment, and what has led up to it.  For the past five months Patrick has been living with a "nephrotic syndrome" (kidney disease) that has led him to deal with a slew of unpleasant symptoms, a closet full of medicine, restricted diet, and frequent hospitalizations.  It's been a roller coaster-  in January a stomach virus caused severe dehydration and led to "acute kidney failure."  The hospitalization has been mentally and emotionally exhausting.  His doctors and team at the UNC Kidney center are globally recognized, and being in the care of such knowledgeable and compassionate experts has produced some very positive results.  Patrick is currently on an up-swing.  He is living at home, receiving out-patient dialysis three days a week, and taking good care of himself nutritionally (more to come on that later). 

The next posts here are mostly going to deal with topics, educational and specific to Patrick's needs.  If you know Patrick, please send him your love and support.  Mailing address and email to reach Patrick are:  patrickdunnagan@hotmail.com,
 2309 Wheeler Rd. Raleigh, NC 27612

As mentioned before, a living kidney donor may be needed for Patrick to recover, and it could be weeks, months, or years before we know if the disease will turn in that direction.  We will post information on how to be tested as it becomes necessary.  For now, please be aware that only a healthy person will be able to give, and will be able to recover completely and live a normal life.  The donor would have absolutely no expenses, yet is required to have health insurance (for their own protection, should a pre-existing condition be found during screening).  The only expense, and biggest sacrifice, is a 6 week recovery period after surgery, during which the donor could not work or engage in other strenuous activity.  Family Medical Leave Act can help cover lost wages, yet this depends on employment status.  There is no age limit for donating, however the best match would be someone near to Patrick in age.  Patrick would require an organ donor with type O blood only (positive or negative), and there is a series of other tests (DNA, etc) that have to be similar for the organs to be an acceptable match for transplant.  So stay tuned!  And thanks for you love and prayers.