Help Amanda & Her Kids Through Her Kidney Transplant Recovery

Hi, my name is Amanda, and I never imagined I’d be in this position again—asking for help to get through a major medical crisis. In 2013, my life was turned upside down when I contracted a severe case of E. coli from a fast food hamburger. Within days, I was in a coma, fighting for my life. Miraculously, I woke up. But the illness caused long-term damage, especially to my kidneys, and I spent a year and a half on dialysis. During this time I was also navigating a divorce and raising three children.

Then, another miracle: my kidneys began functioning again. My doctors were stunned—but cautiously optimistic. Since then, I’ve been closely monitored and live on a strict renal diet with a list of medications to support my health.

In October 2024, my kidney function began to decline again. After a biopsy, I was told that I needed to begin the process of getting on the kidney transplant list. I’ve since been officially listed and, due to a recent development, I’ve been moved to the top of the national list. While this gives me hope, it also means that my timeline has dramatically accelerated. Instead of having a few years to save and plan, I now have months.

As a full-time Grants Manager and single mom of three (Abigayle, 26; Fiona, 13; and Sawyer, 11), I’m used to juggling a lot. My children and I are incredibly close—they are my world, and everything I do is for them. Once I receive the transplant, I will be out of work for several months. My employer offers short-term leave, but that will only cover a portion of my income for a few months. With medical bills, everyday expenses, and being the sole provider, I’m afraid we simply won’t be able to make ends meet during my recovery. I have 100% custody of my children and do not receive any child support from my ex-husband. Both of my parents have progressive dementia and live on a fixed income in an independent living facility. My oldest daughter and I are now their caretakers. I feel blessed to have an amazing 26 year old daughter and a great group of friends who have committed to helping with my two youngest children and around the house with chores/cooking. As a nonprofit Grants Manager I am accustomed to asking for monetary support, but it is incredibly hard for me to ask for monetary support for myself. We will not make it through the recovery period without your support.

I’m asking for your help—not just for me, but for my kids. Any donation, no matter how small, will go directly toward keeping our household running while I focus on healing. Once I return to work, I promise to pay it forward to another family in need on Help Me Bounce.

Asking for help is never easy—but I’m doing this for my children. I want to make sure they feel secure and supported while I recover. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for being a part of our journey. Your kindness means more than words can express.

With gratitude,
Amanda, Fiona, and Sawyer ❤️