Reese’s aunt Laura posts the following update and request:
We wanted to update our friends and followers to ask for specific prayers and support. Recently, Reese has had several tests and scans in preparation for her kidney transplant which we had hoped would be in late May to early June. In light of new information gained from these tests, we now realize she will need a kidney MUCH sooner. Last week, a scan revealed that Reese has a small hole in her diaphragm which is allowing the (dialysis) peritoneal fluid to leak out into the body cavity, thus putting pressure on her heart and causing some concern. This was a bit of a shock to us all as Reese appears so healthy to us all as of late. Her coloring is good, her eyes are bright and she seems so happy and full of life and just seems to feel good. She is not showing any of the signs that usually accompany fluid around the heart. This last week has caused undue stress on us all, but at the end of the day, we all want only what is in Reese’s best interest. What does all of this mean? Well, it means several things must change until we find a kidney donor (which we hope will be soon). At home (PD) dialysis must come to a screeching halt, Reese must change her diet at home and consume less sodium, her fluid intake must be monitored and capped off at a certain level and more trips to Johns Hopkins are in the near future. We do ask that anyone that has considered donating a kidney to Reese but just hasn’t had time to get tested – please make that call. Her need for a kidney just got much greater…no longer is this on our own timeline. I can tell you she has a very common blood type: A+ if that helps anyone out there thinking about giving the best gift of all – an organ. Because Reese had so many necessary blood transfusions that ultimately saved her life, her best match could be anyone! The blood pumping through her body is made up of all of those wonderful blood donors so who knows where her next match might be. Please know we write this update tonight in hopes you will all continue to keep Reese and our entire family in your prayers. Her journey has been a long one but it is one we continue on each and every day. We know that Reese always thrives under pressure and duress and we hope this will be no exception. Her will to live a full life is like no other I have ever seen. I can tell you personally, being around her is the best form of therapy. Her smile lights up a room, her love of life leaves one feeling hopeful and determined. It seems unfair that she continues to battle as she has served her time struggling enough in her lifetime…but we believe God continues to use her to teach others and to remind others to keep the faith. We believe Reese has a very powerful and meaningful purpose in life and that she will do great things. We just need your prayers to help her along. Pray for Reese to stay strong and healthy. Pray her heart stays strong. Pray we find a kidney donor and soon! Pray for strength and patience for Justin and Claire. Pray that a smile stays on Reese’s face as we continue the search. Just pray for Reese. For anyone remotely interested in becoming a donor, please call 1-888-304-5069 for more information. Thanks for the support and prayers. We sure hope ours prayers are heard
