Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is a condition in which clusters of cysts grow in the body, mainly in the kidneys. Over time, the cysts may cause the kidneys to get bigger and stop working. PKD is most often passed through families.

Polycystic kidney disease also can cause cysts to grow in the liver, the pancreas and other places in the body. The disease can cause serious complications, including high blood pressure and kidney failure.

John Roach embodies the roles of husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle and friend with unwavering devotion and a deep-rooted Christian faith. His grandfather, a retired coal miner and Pentecostal preacher from Harrison County, West Virginia, profoundly influenced his spiritual journey. From a young age, John's faith was nurtured by his grandfather, whose legacy continues to shape his beliefs and values. John's upbringing reflects a heritage of hard work and faith; he is the son of a coal miner and a preacher's daughter, carrying forward their resilience and dedication. John has maintained a strong work ethic, contributing significantly to his family's income. However, disability has forced him to step away from work, a challenging adjustment for someone accustomed to being a top contributor. Despite these setbacks, John's faith remains a steadfast source of strength and guidance as he navigates life's trials with resilience and grace.

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John's journey began in 1999 when his father succumbed to kidney failure from PKD. Following a routine doctor's visit where he was advised to test for kidney disease due to his family history, John received his own diagnosis of PKD later that year. This marked the start of numerous medical tests, medications, and a commitment to lifestyle changes. Despite knowing that a kidney transplant might one day be necessary, John faced many challenges along the way, impacting both him and his family in ways he never anticipated. In 2014, a pivotal decision was made to move across the country from West Virginia to North Texas to establish care with specialized doctors and a transplant hospital. By 2021, John's nephrologist determined it was time to proceed with dialysis, leading John to choose Peritoneal dialysis, which allows him to manage the treatments at home. A port was inserted into his stomach cavity, and now, each night, John is connected to a machine for nine hours while he sleeps, managing his condition with determination and resilience.