Bridge of Life’s PD Room Project is a new initiative that aims to provide a safe space for children with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) to undergo home dialysis treatment. By enabling home treatment, we're not only cutting down on the time and costs associated with traveling to clinics but also opening up new opportunities for education and work. Plus, it's a significant step towards transplant possibilities for these kids.

In partnership with local organizations in Guatemala, Bridge of Life and volunteers are building and designing PD rooms for children with ERSD. To learn more about the impact of this initiative, please read Gerardo's story below.

Meet Gerardo

Gerardo, 11 years old, was a healthy child with a bright future until his health took a sudden turn seven months ago. His legs and face began to swell, and after struggling to find a diagnosis near his home, he was eventually sent to a large public hospital in Guatemala City and diagnosed with kidney failure. Gerardo began dialysis at the country's only pediatric clinic, requiring a grueling five-hour commute three times a week. His father, Dionesio, had to take Gerardo to his treatment so his mother could stay at home with his younger sister, Stefany. This took a toll on his ability to work and disrupted their plans to build a home, leaving them cramped in a single room home.

In June of this year, Gerardo received positive news thanks to support from Bridge of Life. A team of volunteers traveled to Gerardo's home to build a special treatment space so he can receive a more comfortable and accessible care plan. His father, Dionisio, expressed in gratitude, "We are happy because it's a big help for our child to be in better health and now he has a special, safe place where he can have all his treatments."

Building PD rooms for kids like Gerardo ensures that more children have equitable access to health care!

Volunteer Testimonial:

“Opportunities to serve remind us of a powerful lesson – we get back more when we work for others instead of for ourselves. Bridge of Life missions are awesome examples of this simple, overlooked idea. I’m grateful to be part of a team making a big change for children with ESRD by supporting local partners who deliver lifesaving care day in and day out. I found myself in uniquely human moments I otherwise never would’ve experienced and received so much fulfillment and knowledge.”

- Spencer Hodge