A.J. Jefferson, now a sophomore, is undergoing eight hours of dialysis daily while waiting for news of a donor.
(Fox 5 Atlanta.)
A high school football player’s dreams were dashed last year when a rolled ankle led to the discovery of chronic kidney disease. A.J. Jefferson, now a sophomore in Forsyth, Ga., first sought help after his ankle wouldn’t heal and his legs began to swell, according to Fox 5 Atlanta.
Doctors soon discovered that he was experiencing symptoms of kidney failure, and the then-freshman was forced to trade in his pads for eight hours of dialysis every day.
“They told me I couldn’t play football anymore,” Jefferson, who also plays basketball for Mary Pearsons High School, told Fox 5 Atlanta.
But still, Jefferson has showed up for practice, offering his support for the sideline as he waits for news of a donor. Volunteers can sign up for screening through Emory.
“I have a deep love for the game,” he told the news outlet. “I’ve played since I was little and it’s helping to come out here and be around the guys.”
Jefferson said the support he’s received from the community has also helped him cope.
“It’s been mind-blowing to have a community that supports you through hard times, to have teammates, coaches, friends and loved ones all back you up,” he said. “It really means a lot.”
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