MCKD and My Family
Susan is just one of many that are affected by Medullary Cystic Kidney Disease (MCKD) in her family. Her mom, Diane Rachey, is currently waiting for a kidney as well. Diane received her first kidney transplant in 1978 and it lasted until 2005. In 2005 she had to start on dialysis again and has been maintaining life since then with hemodialysis. Diane also has high level of antibodies and hard to match which is a result of the previous transplant. Additional family members of Susan's affected by MCKD are 5 aunts/uncles and 5 cousins. These family members are fortunate to have received transplants. Unfortunately, two of Susan's aunts are now starting to show failure of their transplanted kidney. One of these aunt's transplanted kidney lasted 39 years, wow. Average 'life' of a transplanted kidney is 12 to 20 years. Research has shown that there is more chance of longer life of a transplanted kidney from a living donor. Additionally, Susan's sister has been diagnosed with MCKD and will most likely need a transplant or dialysis in a few years. Diane's father, Susan's grandfather had MCKD and died when he was in his early forties as a result.
MCKD is a genetic disease. Therefore, if Susan’s children have it then their children have a chance of carrying the gene-disease. However, if they do not have it then their children will not. There is current research in progress in MCKD. Our family is looking at ways to further this research and find ways to genetically end this disease. More information to come regarding the research and what you can do to help.
Susan's mom is also B blood type, same as Susan. If you are considering testing to be a living donor for Susan, please consider also testing for Diane. When contacting the University of MN please mention you are testing for both Susan Sutton and Diane Rachey. Thank you for your consideration.
If you or someone you know would like to confidentially seek additional information, proceed to be considered for kidney donation or participate in the Paired Exchange Program, please contact University of Minnesota Fairview Transplant Center Intake Specialist at 612-672-7270. Please reference Susan Sutton from Rockford, MN and Diane Rachey from Aitkin, MN. Thank you for your prayerful consideration.
MCKD is a genetic disease. Therefore, if Susan’s children have it then their children have a chance of carrying the gene-disease. However, if they do not have it then their children will not. There is current research in progress in MCKD. Our family is looking at ways to further this research and find ways to genetically end this disease. More information to come regarding the research and what you can do to help.
Susan's mom is also B blood type, same as Susan. If you are considering testing to be a living donor for Susan, please consider also testing for Diane. When contacting the University of MN please mention you are testing for both Susan Sutton and Diane Rachey. Thank you for your consideration.
If you or someone you know would like to confidentially seek additional information, proceed to be considered for kidney donation or participate in the Paired Exchange Program, please contact University of Minnesota Fairview Transplant Center Intake Specialist at 612-672-7270. Please reference Susan Sutton from Rockford, MN and Diane Rachey from Aitkin, MN. Thank you for your prayerful consideration.