At the age of 4 JP was diagnosed with renal failure. For the next 9 years, JP had to travel
to Red Cross Hospital 4 to 5 times a year to monitor his renal function. The biggest
challenge for the family was getting to these appointments as only one parent was
employed.
At the age of 13 he was in the final phase of kidney failure and on dialysis. Having
dialysis for 10 hours a day is a very lonely and challenging road for a teenager. Luckily,
he could have dialysis at home, his bedroom looked like a hospital room with machines
and drip stands! Despite these challenges JP went to school every day and performed at
the best of his ability, always optimistic that he will get better.
On 3 February 2018, the family received the life-changing call that a donor kidney was
available! On 4 February 2018, he received his new kidney, although it was challenging
to stabilize him, he grew stronger every day and after a few months he returned home to
Despatch in the Eastern Cape.
His mom says, Wings and Wishes really supported us with flights during his kidney failure
journey, and during the transplant they were by our side, always checking up on us."
Today, 5 years and 6 months later JP is a young man with a bright future. In January this
year, he became a dad and simply adores his little girl. He is currently qualifying as a
Toolmaker and his dream is to take over his dad's business.
Well done JP, we admire you for your perseverance and positive attitude. What an
honour to be part of your journey!
