For those who know me and for those who don't my name is Taeron most people call me Tae. Since the age of 13 I have dealt with kidney disease. Oftentimes, when I tell people I have end stage renal disease the first reaction they give me, is disbelief. I don't look, act, or sound like someone who is sick, let alone someone missing an organ. For over 22 years I've been in kidney failure, and had to face many obstacles.

The hardest way kidney failure has affected my life has been taking the life of my grandparents and mother. They raised me from a 10-month-old baby along with my biological mother. That hurt me more than any treatment I've ever gotten. All three of them family essentially died from acidosis a by-product of kidneys failing for one reason or another. This hurt my heart to the core. As I pondered, I asked myself what could I do to honor their legacy? 

So here we are, in May I will be competing in the OCB Natural Bodybuilding competition. I will be competing in the men's physique division. My goal with this fundraiser isn't simply just to raise money for the kidney foundation but to also show that kidney failure is not a death sentence. You can live a great life with kidney disease. I also want to show that anything is possible with dedication and perseverance.

By donating to the National Kidney Foundation you are helping to provide knowledge, resources and treatment to millions of people all across this country. I hope you will join me and help spread awareness. Hopefully, with your help, we can find a cure for this disease.
 
Thanks in advance
I’ve joined Team Kidney to raise funds to support the National Kidney Foundation (NKF) and their work to help people at risk for kidney disease, those living with chronic kidney disease, and those who care for and about them.

Did you know that 1 in 3 American adults are at risk for kidney disease? Major risk factors include diabetes, high blood pressure, a family history of kidney failure and being age 60 or older. Kidney disease often has no symptoms, and it can go undetected until very advanced. But a simple test can tell you if you have kidney disease.

The funds we raise enable NKF to provide early detection screenings and vital patient and community services to our local community. Your gift will make a difference in the lives of the nearly 30 million Americans who are currently living with kidney disease and the 73 million more at risk. It’s great to have you on the team.

Thank you!