Community Unites to Support Kindergartener in Life-Saving Kidney Transplant

Community Comes Together for a Kindergartener in Need

Charlotte, N.C. — In a heartwarming tale that shows the true spirit of community, the people of Providence Day School rallied together to help save one of their young students, a kindergartener named Carter Wilson. This incredible journey began when Carter faced a life-threatening condition that required a kidney transplant.

A Bright Young Boy Facing Dark Times

“My name is Carter, and I’m 5 years old,” said the charming little boy during an interview in his colorful classroom. It’s hard to imagine why anyone wouldn’t want to help this delightful child, even if they had never met him before. His cheerful spirit and bright smile are contagious, and when Caroline Dudley, a mom with four kids enrolled at the same school, saw his story, she couldn’t just sit back and do nothing.

The Heartfelt Decision

“Seeing his face in that picture, and then hearing the words his parents said, I felt, if I was in a position to help, there’s no reason I shouldn’t,” Dudley shared, explaining her motivation. After learning that she shared a blood type with Carter, she quickly educated herself about the procedure and decided to step up. “I knew nothing about it, but after a quick Google search, I submitted the form,” she recalled.

How It All Started

Just a few short months ago, Carter was a healthy, energetic little boy. That all changed during a hospital visit in March 2023 for pneumonia, when his parents were given shocking news about his kidney health. “The doctors said his creatinine levels kept shooting up, and I was like ‘What does that mean?'” his father, Dewett Wilson, explained. They soon learned that Carter would need emergency dialysis and, eventually, a transplant.

A Ride Down a Tough Road

“I had to be on dialysis,” Carter said, recalling that challenging time. When asked how he felt, he simply answered, “Sad. Because I was not having fun.” In just five weeks, Carter’s kidney function dropped dangerously from 90% to 10%, and the family was thrust into a whirlwind of medical visits and worries.

The Power of Community

To find a donor, Carter’s mom, Sadna Wilson, took to social media, reaching out to other parents for assistance. “I reached out to some of the moms in the class and asked, ‘Can you help me share the story?’” Sadna described. The whole Providence Day community came together, helping spread the word.

A Life-Changing Gift

It wasn’t long before Caroline Dudley’s actions set everything in motion, leading to a successful transplant. She later visited Carter, cementing their bond. “I feel like I’ve gained a family, so I’ve gotten more out of this experience than I ever imagined,” Dudley said, her heartfelt words reflecting the connection they formed through this journey.

A Bond Shaped by Kindness

Today, Carter’s locker is adorned with a collage of pictures that includes Dudley and her family. The two families have grown close, spending quality time together and enjoying the beautiful surprise that life has given them. “She’s like an angel,” said Sadna with tears of gratitude in her eyes. “She reminded me there are still good people in the world.” Dewett added, “She’s a one-in-a-million type of person. She’s given our little boy a shot at life.”

Spreading Awareness

Both families recognize the significance of raising awareness about kidney donations. Dudley emphasized that the process was not as challenging as she initially thought. “I was back playing tennis not long after surgery,” she stated proudly. What she received in return, however, was valuable beyond measure — a deep friendship and a chance to change a child’s life.

Join the Cause

If you’re interested in becoming an organ donor or learning more about this vital cause, consider reaching out to local organizations for additional information. Together, we can help save lives just like Carter’s!