Community rallies for Ecuadorian woman in urgent need of kidney transplant

CHICAGO — Friends and family describe Laura Velasteguí as a kind, selfless soul who radiates generosity and warmth despite the struggles she’s faced with.

Though she’s only been in the U.S. for a short time after arriving from Ecuador, Velasteguí has already touched many lives in her community.

Now, she is faced with the most difficult battle of her life.

Velasteguí has been diagnosed with stage 5 chronic kidney disease. Her kidneys no longer function, and while she’s been receiving dialysis, the treatment is now taking a toll.

The buildup of toxins in her body has led to uremic neuropathy, a painful and debilitating condition that continues to worsen.

Her only hope is a kidney transplant. But Velasteguí is undocumented and doesn’t have health insurance, making it nearly impossible for her to access the care she needs.

Her loved ones hope to raise $90,000 to help cover medical expenses once she’s placed on the donor list and matched with a kidney. As of Sunday, about $8,000 has been raised.

To donate or for more information, click here.