Name: Riley Clements

Listen to his story:

Diagnosis: Awaiting Kidney Transplant

Chester and Theresa were thrilled to hear that they were having twins after several years of trying.  It was mid way through the pregnancy that they found out one of the two babies was not completely healthy. 

On October 12, 2005 Riley and Regan were born.  Born prematurely; both needed strength.  In addition to the premature birth, Riley had a little more fighting to due.  He was born with several complications including a heart defect, cystic-dysphasic kidneys, end-stage renal disease, a neurogenic bladder, imperforated anus and penal scrotal transposition. 

He spent the first six months of life in the hospital.  Amongst his procedures at 10 months that he had his catheter placed and underwent his first dialysis treatment. At 2 ½ years, Riley has undergone 10 procedures.  He has had many of his procedures done at Egleston Hospital in Atlanta but he has faithfully been coming to Wolfson Children’s Hospital for his dialysis treatments as well as seizures.

This precious 2 ½ year old visits the Dialysis Unit of Wolfson Children’s Hospital three times a week to receive his treatment.  He is required to sit within a confined area hooked up to the dialysis machine for three hours at a time.  Riley is on the transplant list but will continue to visit Wolfson three times a week until undergoing the transplant when available. 

“Riley takes it all in stride.  He always has a smile on his face.  He is a trooper, commented his mom, Theresa”.  

Riley’s still has a long road ahead but his prognosis is good.  This little boy that absolutely loves life is awaiting the day that he will be able to get a Happy Meal from McDonalds like his sister Regan does instead of being fed through his feeding tube.  He awaits the time that he can go swimming or take a real bath instead of a sponge bath.

Riley and Regan have a pet named Tipsy.  He loves BBQ chips along with Mickey mouse and cookie monster.  Riley is quite the singer and is your active two year old jumping around.  The worst part about being in the hospital is getting stuck for blood and IV’s.