Every parent dreams of watching their children grow up healthy and happy, cherishing a joyful childhood. For Karen Rodas and Paul Bybkin, the arrival of their son Nathaniel was a bittersweet moment.
Their beloved son survived just 36 hours due to Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD). This condition affects the kidneys, causing cysts that often result in kidney failure, as it did with baby Nathaniel.
In 2013, Karen and Paul welcomed a daughter, Maddy, into their lives. This time they were full of optimism. However, their dreams were shattered when they learned Maddy was diagnosed with the same condition that claimed her brother. Maddy’s tiny belly was swollen so much that it looked like a nine-month pregnant woman’s belly, leaving her parents devastated.
Hope was just around the corner, though, when Maddy’s father decided to donate one of his kidneys, giving his daughter a new chance at life.
Before this crucial surgery, Maddy’s young life revolved around hospitals, and her condition made her sleep up to 18 hours daily.
The family anxiously waited, knowing that Maddy’s future depended on finding a kidney donor match.
Miraculously, Paul turned out to be the perfect donor!
“Having both Paul and Maddy undergo surgery was incredibly nerve-wracking for me,” Karen expressed according to The Mirror.
The surgery was successful, and both Maddy and Paul recovered fully.
“Thanks to Daddy’s kidney, our little Maddy has a new life,” Karen beamed. “She’s now full of energy, her belly is just slightly rounded, and she’s a healthy, lively two-year-old.”
For Paul, the decision was an instinctual one – doing what he believed any father would do for their child.
“It’s been a rollercoaster, but I did what any dad would do, giving my kidney to Maddy was a given,” he noted according to The Mirror.
“Now, we are thrilled and cherishing every moment watching Maddy blossom into a vibrant little girl.”
Though Maddy may require another transplant in about 25 years, she has countless vibrant years ahead to live joyously and fully.
We celebrate this beautiful family and send them all the joy life can offer. Please share this uplifting story with your friends and family to spread happiness and wellness.
