Zack Smith’s life was a testament to resilience and the unwavering love of a family. Born with kidney disease to a teenage mother, Arivia Smith, Zack faced numerous health challenges from a young age. Despite the initial grim prognosis, he defied the odds, enjoying a relatively normal childhood for his first decade. This is the story of his courageous fight, the unwavering support of his mother and family, and the tragic loss that ultimately united a community of grieving hearts.
Early Challenges and a Mother’s Love
Arivia Smith was only 15 when she learned she was pregnant with Zack. Doctors discovered that fluid was unable to drain from his bladder, leading to chronic kidney disease (CKD). They advised terminating the pregnancy, believing Zack wouldn’t survive more than a few hours after birth. Against all odds, Arivia chose to carry her son to term, demonstrating a mother’s unwavering love and determination.
Zack was born at 37 weeks and immediately placed in the NICU for a month. He required a specialized formula and constant monitoring of his medication, electrolytes, and creatinine levels. In addition to CKD, Zack’s hips were dislocated at birth, necessitating surgery and a full body cast at just eight months old.
A Decade of Normalcy and the Onset of Complications
Despite these early setbacks, Zack’s first 10 years were remarkably normal. With the dedicated care of his mother and medical team, he thrived. However, around age 10, Zack’s kidney function began to deteriorate significantly. Cysts on both kidneys prevented them from growing with him, eventually leading to kidney failure.
At 11, Zack began dialysis, a life-altering treatment that restricted his activities and social life. He endured both hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis, requiring a port in his stomach and nightly treatments. This transition was emotionally challenging for Zack, who longed for the carefree days of his childhood.
The Kidney Transplant: Hope and Heartbreak
The family knew a kidney transplant was inevitable. When Zack was 13, they received the long-awaited call. A kidney was available. Filled with hope and anticipation, they traveled to Charlotte, North Carolina, for the procedure. The surgery was successful, and initially, the new kidney functioned well.
However, just days later, Zack’s blood pressure skyrocketed, and his body began rejecting the transplanted organ. Doctors performed plasmapheresis to remove the antibodies attacking the kidney. After a month-long hospital stay, Zack returned home, but the challenges were far from over.
A Cascade of Complications and a Devastating Diagnosis
The day after returning home, Zack suffered a grand mal seizure. He was rushed back to the hospital, where doctors discovered he had overdosed on anti-rejection medication, leading to posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES). This caused severe headaches, seizures, and temporary vision loss, adding four more medications to his already extensive regimen.
Zack’s health continued to decline. He battled debilitating headaches, missed school frequently, and developed a persistent cough. The school district, unaware of the severity of his condition, pressured Arivia about his absences. One day, a seemingly harmless cold escalated rapidly into strep throat, pneumonia, RSV, and ultimately, septic shock.
Zack’s Final Battle and a Mother’s Unbreakable Spirit
Zack was hospitalized for 32 agonizing days, fighting for his life. Doctors performed emergency procedures, including ethanol dialysis and open-heart surgery, but his condition worsened. He was described as the sickest child in North Carolina. Each day, the family faced the heartbreaking possibility of letting him go.
After witnessing their son’s immense suffering, Arivia and her husband made the agonizing decision to withdraw life support. Surrounded by his loving family, Zack passed away at the age of 13.
Finding Strength in Sharing and Community
Arivia shared Zack’s story on TikTok, a platform she had previously used to document his journey. The outpouring of love and support from strangers was overwhelming. Grieving mothers and individuals who had lost loved ones connected with Arivia, forming a community united by shared pain and the desire to honor Zack’s memory.
Remembering Zack: A Legacy of Love and Resilience
Zack Smith’s story is a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment. His courageous battle, though tragically short, touched countless lives. Arivia’s unwavering love and advocacy, both for her son and for other grieving families, continue to inspire hope and provide solace to those navigating the darkest of times. Zack’s legacy lives on in the hearts of his family, friends, and the community that rallied around him.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chronic Kidney Disease in Children
What is chronic kidney disease (CKD)? CKD is a condition where the kidneys are damaged and cannot filter blood properly. This can lead to a buildup of waste and fluid in the body.
What are the symptoms of CKD in children? Symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the disease but may include fatigue, poor appetite, swelling, changes in urination, and high blood pressure.
What causes CKD in children? CKD can be caused by birth defects, genetic conditions, infections, and other health problems.
How is CKD treated in children? Treatment options include medication to manage symptoms, dialysis to filter waste from the blood, and kidney transplant.
