Father Donates Kidney to Save Daughter with Rare Disease

Every parent’s greatest wish is for their child to be healthy and happy. For Karen Rodas and Paul Bybkin, that dream was shattered when their newborn son, Nathaniel, passed away just 36 hours after birth due to Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD), a condition that causes cysts to grow on the kidneys and can lead to kidney failure.

In 2013, they were blessed with a daughter, Maddy. Sadly, she was also diagnosed with PKD. Her stomach was so swollen it resembled that of a nine-months-pregnant woman. The couple feared they might lose another child.

But this time, fate was kinder. Doctors told the family Maddy’s best chance at life was a kidney transplant — and her father, Paul, turned out to be a perfect match.

Before the surgery, Maddy spent most of her days in hospitals, sleeping up to 18 hours a day due to fatigue. Her life was on pause as her parents searched for hope.

“With Paul and Maddy, two of my most precious souls, going under the knife, my nerves were a wreck,” Karen recalled.

Thankfully, the transplant was a complete success. Maddy recovered well and transformed into a happy, energetic toddler.

“Daddy’s kidney has saved our little girl,” Karen said. “She’s now a healthy two-year-old with boundless energy.”

Paul humbly added, “Any father would do the same. It’s part of being a parent.”

Maddy may need another transplant in 25 years, but for now, she has a full life ahead — and loving parents by her side.