Story added: October 31, 2017
John Vallarelli
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John Vallarelli[/caption]
I was diagnosed in 1993. Initially hospitalized for diverticulitis, I had a CAT scan and the next morning, seven doctors showed up to my room and told me I have PKD. Was I shocked? No; surprised, yes. My mom had it, too, and was doing ok.
Several weeks later, as my wife is pregnant with our daughter, her ultrasounds saw a larger than normal kidney. I knew right then it was that gene. After our daughter's birth, we took blood from her, my mom and me and genetic testing proved what we already suspected.
Today I have 55% function with no issues. There are challenges, yes, but nothing is insurmountable. Our daughter Rachel, I hope and pray that treatments will be found in her lifetime. For my wife, she has the burden of having both of us affected, she is the tough one!
John Vallarelli[/caption]
I was diagnosed in 1993. Initially hospitalized for diverticulitis, I had a CAT scan and the next morning, seven doctors showed up to my room and told me I have PKD. Was I shocked? No; surprised, yes. My mom had it, too, and was doing ok.
Several weeks later, as my wife is pregnant with our daughter, her ultrasounds saw a larger than normal kidney. I knew right then it was that gene. After our daughter's birth, we took blood from her, my mom and me and genetic testing proved what we already suspected.
Today I have 55% function with no issues. There are challenges, yes, but nothing is insurmountable. Our daughter Rachel, I hope and pray that treatments will be found in her lifetime. For my wife, she has the burden of having both of us affected, she is the tough one!