Leo’s kidney transplant journey

$9,862 donated

Given by 104 generous donors in 6 weeks

2 year old Leo is in the final stages of kidney failure and must have a kidney transplant. Funds will help the family through this time.

International

This is Leo. His Dad is a kiwi, and they live in Kobe, Japan with his Mum and 4y.o. sister.

Leo was born 7 weeks premature, and soon after it was discovered that had a major lung issue, along with both of his kidneys completely under developed.

His parents were told that he was not going to survive, and he is unable to travel back to NZ for treatment.

After DNA tests he was found to have a mutation on his PAX 2 chromosome which causes deformities with eyes, lungs and kidneys. Unfortunately, he also has some other unrelated issues including a severe allergy to milk products, and a misshaped stomach that caused him to throw up every feed.

He is a fighter, and after having half of his lung removed, having his stomach reconstructed, being changed to milk that costs his parents NZ$800 per month, having a feeding tube inserted to his stomach, going through multiple surgeries and spending more than half of his life in hospital he has amazed everyone and continues to battle on.

He is in the very final stages of kidney failure and should be about to start dialysis. Right at this point is he was found to have Crohn’s Disease (an inflammatory bowel disease) as well, which means that dialysis isn’t an option, and for him to survive he must have a kidney transplant as soon as possible.

Due to his small size (he has just made it to 9kg) there is only one hospital in Japan that is able to complete this surgery. This hospital is in Tokyo, which is about the same distance as Auckland to Wellington away from Leo’s home. His grandma is looking positive for a possible match, but they have to undergo 2 weeks of tests in Tokyo beforehand, and another 2 months in hospital for the transplant. The costs of the tests alone will be around NZ$15,000, none of which is covered under insurance. Leo’s mum will also have to stay in Tokyo while his Dad and older sister stay at home in Kobe.

All money raised will be used to cover the medical tests, travel costs, and accommodation in Tokyo through this difficult time.

Mia Walker's involvement (page creator)

Leo's parents are good friend of myself. I was also one of bridesmaids at their wedding in Auckland.

Use of funds

All the money will be used to help Leo's family manage their costs while caring for Leo.

Latest update

Final update 4 May 2018

Hi everyone.

This is a final update as Leo and his dad have had their matching tests and have returned back home to Kobe now. Leo's parents have asked to close the page down now they are back home.

Great news is that Leo and his dad are a match and the doctors are happy to move forward with the transplant!

Unfortunately Leo picked up a respritory virus while in hospital which put more pressure on his kidney function. This has caused his condition to deteriorate further and the surgery date has been brought forward as soon as possible.

Leo spent a couple of days back at home in Kobe, but currently has been admitted back into the hospital in Kobe as the virus has moved to his lungs affecting his breathing. Hopefully he will come right and be released home soon.

The family will be heading up to Tokyo again early next month for the transplant all going to plan.

Leo's parents want to pass on the hugest thank you to every person that has donated. They have been completely blown away with the response from family, friends and complete strangers alike. It means so much to them and has removed a huge weight off them through what has been and continues to be a stressful time.

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