Are you a match?
My name is Paulette and here is my story.
I am 61 years old, a single mother of 3 fantastic sons and 1 great greyhound dog, Jethro. They are my world. I am a teacher at St. Charles Adult and Continuing Centre where I teach English as a Second to newcomers to Canada. I am the first teacher they see and most of my students do not speak English. It is a job that I love and am passionate about. My greatest desire is to be an active and involved parent and be the best teacher I can for my students. My declining health has left me physically and emotionally drained, making it increasingly challenging to participate in the lives of those I love the most.
In 2019, I was diagnosed with End Stage Kidney Disease (CKD). This means that my kidneys are barely functioning and cannot filter waste from my body. My doctor has recommended a live kidney donor as my best chance for survival. Without this, my life span is greatly shortened.
As the effects of my condition worsen, the prospect of dialysis brings me additional distress. Dialysis would severely limit my quality of life, restricting my freedom, leaving me unable to give all I can to my students and family. I would be unable to actively engage in their lives and provide the support they need.
By writing this letter, I am hoping someone will come forward and get tested to see if we are a match.
Thank you for taking time to read my letter and considering this life transforming act.
Please feel free to contact me at desormeauxp@hwcdsb.ca or ruby905@hotmail.com.
For information on the Living Kidney Donor Program, please visit www.stjoes.ca/livingdonorquestionnaire.
