Maddy, the daughter of Karen Rhodes and Paul Rybkin, was born with a rare condition called polycystic kidney disease (PKD), the same disease that tragically took her older brother just 36 hours after birth. PKD causes cysts to form in the kidneys, often leading to kidney failure.
When Karen and Paul learned they were expecting another child in 2013, they were overjoyed — but their joy turned to worry when Maddy was born with the same condition. Determined to give her a chance at life, the parents refused to accept that their second child might suffer the same fate. After two years of struggle, Paul fought to give Maddy a second chance.
During her first year and a half, Maddy required constant medical attention, including oxygen therapy and breathing tubes. Her belly remained swollen due to the disease, and she was often weak, lethargic, and nauseous. As her condition worsened, doctors feared they might not find a suitable kidney donor in time.
Thankfully, they discovered that Paul was a compatible donor. While Karen worried for both her husband and daughter ahead of the surgery, the operation was a success. Paul’s selfless act saved Maddy’s life.
Today, Maddy is a vibrant, happy, and healthy 2-year-old. Her belly has returned to normal, and she is thriving, playing with friends and enjoying life. Paul, grateful and humbled, said, “Any parent would have done the same thing to save their child.”
While doctors anticipate that Maddy may need another kidney transplant in 25 years, her parents are focused on living in the moment and cherishing their daughter’s progress. Their hope is to watch her grow into a normal, happy child, celebrating every milestone along the way.
This family’s journey is a testament to love, perseverance, and the extraordinary lengths parents will go to protect their children.
