Parents’ Heartache Turns to Hope as Father Donates Kidney to Save Daughter’s Life
When Karen Rodas and Paul Rybkin welcomed their son Nathaniel into the world, their joy was short-lived—he tragically passed away after just 36 hours. He had been born with Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD), a rare and serious condition that causes fluid-filled cysts to grow in the kidneys, often leading to kidney failure.
The New Jersey couple faced heartbreak once again in 2013 when their daughter Maddy was born with the same condition. In her early life, Maddy’s health was a constant concern. Her belly became severely swollen, and she spent much of her first 18 months in and out of the hospital, requiring oxygen and feeding tubes.
Despite the challenges, Maddy fought hard—but eventually, her health started to decline. She became extremely fatigued, sleeping up to 18 hours a day and suffering frequent bouts of vomiting. Doctors feared that without a kidney transplant, she might not survive.
Fortunately, Maddy’s father Paul turned out to be a perfect donor match. He didn’t hesitate to undergo surgery to donate one of his kidneys to save his daughter’s life.
“It was terrifying having both Paul and Maddy in surgery,” Karen shared, “but Daddy’s kidney saved our little girl. Now, she’s full of life and energy. Her once-swollen belly is nearly gone, and she’s a vibrant, joyful two-year-old.”
Paul, ever humble, said he simply did what any parent would. “It’s part of being a dad,” he said. “We’ve been through a lot, but now we can enjoy seeing Maddy grow up happy and healthy.”
Though Maddy may need another transplant in about 25 years, her parents are focused on the present and cherishing each milestone. In recent updates, her mother shared that Maddy is thriving—she graduated preschool, is headed to kindergarten, and recently celebrated her 9th birthday.
Karen continues to post updates on Maddy’s journey, reminding everyone how far their daughter has come. Her story is a powerful reminder of love, resilience, and the miracles made possible through family.