Blog Post: Thank You for Sharing Our Story - Samuel’s Fight for Medical Freedom

We are so incredibly grateful to the hosts, Aileeah & Irene, for providing us with the platform to share our journey on their podcast. It has been an emotional, difficult, and sometimes lonely road, and this episode has been a chance to bring light to the challenges we face in Samuel's fight for health and medical freedom. From the very first conversation to the heartfelt discussions that followed, the hosts not only gave us a voice but also helped amplify our message to a wider audience. In return, I wanted to offer this spot on my blog to host some additional content to go along with the podcast episode, for those momma's who want more details!

As a mother, there is nothing more important than protecting your child, and for the last several years, I’ve fought not only for Samuel’s physical health but also for his right to make informed medical choices, and for my right to make them for him. We know this...

If this is our first time to meet, "Hello". I am Rachelle, the mother of an incredible young man named Samuel. Over the past decade, our family has faced a battle I wouldn’t wish on anyone. Samuel’s journey through chronic kidney disease, multiple hospital systems, and devastating medical setbacks has tested our faith, resilience, and strength. Now, as we stand at a crossroads, I’m sharing our story in the hope that it inspires others to help us advocate for Samuel’s care and give him the future he deserves.

A Decade of Challenges

Samuel was diagnosed with Nephrotic Syndrome in 2014, and by 2015, it had progressed to FSGS (focal segmental glomerulosclerosis), a condition that would eventually require a kidney transplant. Despite years of dialysis, medical interventions, and our constant advocacy, systemic barriers made his journey incredibly difficult. We’ve had to navigate hospital policies, vaccine mandates, and inconsistent care, all while watching Samuel’s health—and trust in the...