For over 18 years, diabetes has been a struggle for Raul. When he suddenly lost consciousness in the street 7 months ago, the doctors diagnosed Raul with acute kidney failure. Due to lack of access to medication and treatment, Raul is now going into kidney failure and needs dialysis, a treatment that mimics the kidney’s ability to remove waste products from blood. Raul is a 50-year-old man from Guatemala.
Our medical partner, Wuqu’ Kawoq (WK), explains, “Without treatment, Raul will die. Dangerous levels of chemicals and waste will buildup in his blood. In addition, he will be at risk for other symptoms of uncontrolled diabetes, including blindness, nerve damage, and cardiovascular complications.”
Raul lives with his mother, sister, and extended family. He used to work as a construction worker, but had to stop after he began passing out at work. In recent months, Raul has had difficulty eating due to vomiting, passes out when he stands for a long time, and has pain in his legs due to swelling. Raul and his family cannot afford the cost of treatment, and with his sister now taking care of him, Raul’s family has lost two streams of income.
$1,496 will cover the dialysis that Raul needs to survive. WK says, “With this treatment, Raul will be able to live a relatively normal life, even with his failing kidneys. His energy will increase and he will be able to get back to everyday activities and spend time with his family.”
“I am most excited to be able to walk around again once I receive treatment,” Raul shares, “I want to be more independent.”