Abilene community celebrates boy’s birthday despite health struggles

ABILENE, Texas (KTAB/KRBC) – People in Abilene came together today to celebrate the birthday of a young boy, Zaiden, who has been battling a rare and serious kidney condition.

Zaiden was born with multicystic dysplastic kidney disease and end-stage renal failure — a congenital condition in which one of the kidneys fails to develop correctly in the womb. Instead of forming normal tissue, the kidney fills with cysts and does not function correctly.

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While Zaiden recently received a kidney transplant, he continues to face serious health challenges. He is currently dealing with other medical complications, including fluid buildup and cranial pressure that causes him significant pain. Due to his condition, Zaiden is unable to be out in the sun for a long time.

Despite these hardships, Zaiden and his twin sister, Zailee, who both celebrated their birthday today, July 13, were surrounded by love and support from their community. A drive-by celebration was organized, with cars decorated with balloons, signs, and well-wishes parading past the family’s home.

This birthday marks a bittersweet milestone — Zaiden has never been home for his birthday due to frequent hospital stays. He is expected to return to Cook Children’s Medical Center on Monday.

Zaiden’s great-uncle, Jose Muñiz, shared his thoughts on what it meant to him about Zaiden’s birthday event today.

“It means a lot that so many people came out to support when they put this on as a last-minute thing. So we’re really appreciative, especially all of the prayers that were said and continue to be said. So we really appreciate that,” Muñiz said.

The community’s outpouring of support brought smiles and comfort to Zaiden and his family during a time that has been anything but easy.

You can click on the GoFundMe website if you wish to donate to Zaiden’s family.