Los Banos, California (KFSN) – At age 12, doctors diagnosed Jose Gonzalez with chronic kidney disease.
“The doctors said I was throwing a lot of protein into my urine. They sent me to do more labs and deeper research and more,” Jose said. “They mentioned Valley Children's Hospital in Madera, and that made me realize I have localized segmental glomerulosclerosis.”
This disease, also known as FSGS, can lead to kidney failure.
At the time, Jose's kidneys were only 80% active, but at age 18, Jose found out she needed dialysis.
“It was walking into the unknown. I didn't know much about dialysis. I heard a lot,” he said.
Jose went on Davita dialysis in Los Banos three times a week for care.
He was treated for seven years while waiting for a kidney donor until he turned to his sister.
“She wanted it for me too. To enjoy life more and get more treatment options. It's not just going to the centre three times a week, four hours,” Jose said.
On April 13, 2018, she donated her kidneys to her younger brother. Give him a chance to live a normal life.
“After they connected her kidneys to me, the kidneys started working quickly, so I didn't need any extra treatment.”
In 2024, reports of health resources and service management were reported, with over 48,000 transplants being made.
However, over 100,000 people are awaiting organ transplants.
A year after the surgery, Jose and his family celebrated his healthy life.
“We're back 100% like normal. We don't need to sit the chair for 3-4 hours,” Jose said.
He is grateful for his sister's gift and now he pays it forward.
Jose works on Davita dialysis and supports others who may be experiencing the same thing.
“All over, we get younger patients, ages 18 to 20. When they're in, I'm looking at myself. So they walk and ask, 'Is it okay to share something with you?' Jose said.
Let others know that there is someone in your corner and there is hope for a healthy future.
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