**Teen Faces Kidney Failure Diagnosis Shortly Before Graduation: Family Seeks Living Donor**
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In a heart-wrenching turn of events, Justin Lepri, a 19-year-old high school student, was diagnosed with stage 5 kidney failure just weeks ahead of his graduation. The poignant revelation came in March 2026 during a family holiday, with Justin experiencing unusual fatigue that left him unable to fully enjoy the trip. However, his situation worsened when he began to struggle for breath, prompting his mother, Madelin Lepri, to seek medical help.
After a visit to urgent care, doctors discovered a mass on Justin’s kidney, leading to his hospital admission. A series of tests culminated in a biopsy that confirmed a diagnosis of kidney failure. Following nine days of extensive examinations, the family learned that Justin had a genetic mutation known as NPHP1, which is implicated in causing nephronophthisis and progressive kidney failure.
The diagnosis was a devastating shock for both parents, Madelin and David Lepri. “There’s no cure for that. It’s very rare, and really the answer is to get a kidney transplant for Justin,” they expressed. Unfortunately, due to the hereditary nature of NPHP1, his parents cannot donate their kidneys, stating, “We would give our kidney and our heartbeat if we could,” but explained their exclusion from consideration due to the genetic basis of the disorder.
In a bid to find a suitable living donor, Justin’s sister Jasmine is currently undergoing evaluation to determine if she can assist her brother. Justin has also been placed on the National Kidney Transplant Waiting List, a significant yet daunting step in his journey. Currently, the list comprises over 109,800 individuals in the United States, with families often facing an agonising wait that can extend four to six years.
Madelin and David Lepri are acutely aware of the urgency of their son’s situation. “We don’t have that kind of time with Justin,” they emphasised, highlighting the grim reality that an average of 12 people die each day waiting for organ transplants, while another person joins the waiting list every seven minutes.
To assist with the costs and spread awareness, the Lepri family has initiated a fundraising campaign, which has garnered over £32,000. The appeal speaks warmly of Justin, describing him as a “special person” with a remarkable spirit. His family praises his creativity, artistic flair, and deep love for nature, photography, and the outdoors.
In a remarkable show of resilience, just days after being discharged from hospital, Justin proudly graduated from Nease High School in Nocatee, Florida. “Even after becoming seriously ill, Justin was determined to make it to his graduation,” said his family, reflecting on the young man’s determination and strength during such a challenging time.
As the Lepri family explores donor options, they have received several applicants willing to help Justin. Amid the uncertainty, Madelin remains hopeful for his recovery: “He is in good spirits, but he still isn’t feeling very well,” she shared, underscoring the need for continued vigilance and support.
As they navigate this difficult journey, the Lepri family is focused on taking each day as it comes, hoping for a breakthrough and searching for a living donor who is in good health and has blood type A or O. The community around them is rallying, demonstrating the power of compassion in times of crisis, as they stand alongside Justin in his fight for a brighter future.