My name is Alexa Mills and today, I would like to share my story! In November of 2015, I was diagnosed with IgA Nephropathy at Birmingham’s Children’s Hospital. To say my little 14-year-old world was turned upside down would be an understatement. Throughout the past decade, I have carried this kidney disease with me through every milestone in my life. In December of 2023, I met with my Nephrologist, and he said I would need to start dialysis due to my kidney disease progressing to Stage 5 renal failure. On December 26th, I started receiving Peritoneal Dialysis daily while at home. I healed from the procedure and immediately began learning the ins and outs of dialysis through Davita Home Options. Without their help and constant support, I do not know if I could have done it all on my own! As I started doing Peritoneal Dialysis in January of 2024, I was simultaneously working to get on the Kidney Transplant list at UAB. I knew going into this process that it could take months or even years to get a match, but I remained strong and hopeful that it would all work out in the end. Over the following weeks, numerous friends and family signed up to get pre-screened as a potential transplant candidate. My mother and my stepmother ended up being perfect matches for me! On July 10th, 2024, my mother donated her left kidney to me! My levels have been increasing, my health is better than it ever has been, and I am blessed beyond measure for her love and sacrifice! I am beyond grateful for life and having a second chance to truly live. It is a joy to have the opportunity to continue my commitment and dedication to helping and educating others who are working through kidney diseases!
A little bit about Alexa!: My name is... - Kidney Transplant
A little bit about Alexa!
Thank you for sharing your blessed experience!
Congratulations. What a great Mum you have. I hope that you’re both doing well.
Thank you! I am very blessed and thankful for her. She and I are doing great so far.
I can't imagine dealing with all this at such a young age. Congratulations on your transplant and the wonderful gift from your mum. Hope you keep in good health and you live your best life ❤️
Thank you! I am thankful for her and my second chance!
Thank you for sharing. We all have our stories of pain and despair. And just in those moments the tide turns. Maybe through actions of others or through an act of faith. Whatever the reason, passing on your good moments is important, not for self importance but for the betterment of the community. Hopefully others will step forward on this forum. We all need hope. Particularly at this time of insecurity where transplantation may become only an option for the rich. Note I shared my concern with my doctor about changes in government leadership and if it will be a liability for transplant patients and he seemed hopeful that the present leadership in that area started evergreen, a transplant organization to make the field more accountable and successful. Hopefully he is correct. This leader is the son of a doctor and seems to have the ear of of important policy makers, but will his decisions be made with people in mind above profit? Has any one else shared the same concerns with their doctors?
Thank you! And this is news to me so thank you for making me aware. I will look into this myself to gain more understanding.
One website I want to share to those who might be considering donating a kidney but are worried about supplementary income or finances while recovering, this site helped my mom!
For donors, if accepted, assistance can be provided while recovering from the surgery.
What will happen to transplant patients on Medicaid? ccf.georgetown.edu/2025/01/...
Thanks for sharing your story! Congrats on your transplant!! What a fantastic gift from your Mom!!
This is a lovely tribute to your family - resulting in a wonderful outcome for you! May you live long and well with the gift your mom gave to you. Praying that all autoimmune conditions, including yours, be relegated to the dustbin of history.
Welcome to the forum, Alexa ❤️ Thank you for reaching out to share your story. So good to hear you have the loving support of friends and family and are recovering so well. Best wishes for continued well being.
Thank you!!😄
Congratulations! Wishing you many more healthy and happy years ahead!
Awesome story! Congrats and thanks for sharing it with all of us. Continued good health.
Well hell or time at such a young age what a blessing that you got a kidney from your mom what a wonderful gift she gave you that sure you appreciate it with all your heart very happy for you I am so glad your mom was a match for you
Congratulations on your transplant and I’m glad to hear that you’re doing so well. I to have IGA nephropathy. I got my transplant four years ago. My husband donated a kidney for me through the exchange program. He is my hero.
Lots of trials and tribulations with this disease, but it appears you have lots of love and support. Your mom's a hero! Thanks for sharing!
It's been eight months since I found out I will need a transplant
Sauna post-kidney transpant
Kicked off List
What is your experience post transplant?
Struggling for her life 
