When Karen Rodas and Paul Rybkin welcomed their son Nathaniel into the world, his life lasted only 36 hours. Nathaniel was afflicted with a rare condition known as Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD), characterized by the growth of cysts in the kidneys, potentially leading to kidney failure. In 2013, the couple had another child, Maddy, who unfortunately shared the same condition as their firstborn. However, after a two-year battle with the disease, this resilient little girl received a lifeline, all thanks to her devoted father.
Maddy Rybkin faced a tough situation – her stomach swelled, and she spent the first 18 months of her life in and out of the hospital. Even with tubes and oxygen treatments, Maddy seemed okay until her health suddenly declined. She became extremely tired, sleeping up to 18 hours a day, and couldn’t stop vomiting, as The Mirror reported. Doctors were worried she might not make it unless they found a suitable kidney donor.
Successful operation
Maddy’s father, Paul, turned out to be a compatible donor, making it possible for him to provide his daughter with the life-saving surgery she desperately needed. Karen expressed her nervousness about both Paul and Maddy undergoing surgery, stating, “With Paul and Maddy, two of my most precious souls, going under the knife, my nerves were a wreck,” as reported by The Mirror. Fortunately, the operation was a success, and both father and daughter are now in good health.
“Daddy’s kidney has saved our little girl,” Karen joyfully shared. “Now, she has boundless energy. Her once massive tummy now looks just a bit rounded, and she is a happy and healthy two-year-old.” Paul, being humble, mentioned that he would have done what any other parent would do in the same situation.
“We’ve been through a rollercoaster ride, but any father would’ve done what I did—donating my kidney to Maddy. It’s just part of being a parent,” he remarked, as per The Mirror. “Now, we’re on a high and can witness Maddy growing up as a happy and healthy little girl.”
Although Maddy will require another kidney transplant in 25 years, her parents feel that it’s a “lifetime away.” Interested readers can follow Maddy’s journey on her mom’s updates, providing insights into her daughter’s progress and well-being in 2023. It’s heartening to see how far she has come.
Great news that something could be done! Sending blessings to Maddy and her dad. Share to wish Maddy a happy and healthy life!