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Nolan's Story

We have to hope that as Nolan grows, there will be better treatments for people living with CKD.

When you first see Nolan, you see a regular 6 year old who loves dinosaurs, ocean animals and playing outside. His laugh is loud and his hugs will melt your heart. His wide eyes are full of wonder and more than a little mischief.  

What you don’t see is his Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD).  

Nolan was born with Posterior Urethral Valves (PUV) – a rare, congenital condition that causes an obstruction in the urinary tract which can result in damage to the kidneys.  At birth, Nolan’s kidney function was just 7%. The first few years were really rough, in many ways – he had so many hospital admissions in the first three years. With exceptional care from a great medical team, and a beautiful circle of support from family and friends, his kidney function has improved to about 25%. This means that while he has a strict medication and fluid intake schedule, he doesn’t need dialysis just yet. We know that day will come, though, just as we know that he will also require a kidney transplant.  

Right now, Nolan is learning so much in Grade 1! When not in school, he loves learning everything he can about dinosaurs, swimming, camping, and going on adventures in the woods. He’s funny and thoughtful, stubborn and challenging, silly and sweet – like most 6 years olds! Sometimes it’s hard to believe what he’s already been through these past 6 years living with CKD.   

Our family has struggled with the many challenges of CKD.  It hasn’t been easy. We’re always learning to weather the challenges as they come, and always preparing ourselves for the next one.  Like every family, we have good days and bad days. But every day, we are so proud of him and we are confident he can continue to thrive. But we need your help.  

When you donate to the Kidney Foundation of Canada, you support research into new technology and new treatments for kids like Nolan who are living with CKD. You also help to raise awareness of life-saving organ donation.  

We have to hope that as Nolan grows, there will be better treatments for people living with CKD. Our biggest hope is a cure – with your help, we know we can get there.