04/22/2025
If you’re new here or just getting to know me, here’s what makes me, me.
I come from a loving Indo-Caribbean family with roots in Guyana, was born in Toronto, and spent my early years in Canada before moving to Fort Lauderdale during high school. About 10 years ago, I made Irmo, SC my home. I’m a proud wife and boy mom—my oldest is on the autism spectrum and continues to inspire me daily with his strength and heart. My youngest has a heart so pure—he’s stylish, loving, and always thinking of others. Both of my boys are my biggest motivation.
And my husband—he’s been my constant. He lifts me up when I feel low and shows up for me and our boys every single day, without fail. His strength and support carry us all through the hardest moments, and I’m so grateful for him.
I was diagnosed with lupus in 2006. Since then, it’s been a long journey filled with battles most people can’t see. I’ve undergone a total hip replacement in 2017, completed two years of Cytoxan and four years of Rituxan—both strong forms of chemotherapy used to calm my overactive immune system and help keep my kidneys stable. I’m currently a Lupus Ambassador for South Carolina, raising awareness for this invisible illness while living with lupus nephritis and currently waiting for a life-saving kidney transplant. Because of high antibodies, I have just a 1% chance of finding a match—but I’m holding on to hope and continuing to fight.
Alongside my journey, I’ve become an advocate for organ donation—because awareness saves lives. Sharing my story is not just about me—it’s about helping others understand how powerful and life-changing becoming a donor can be.
Yesterday, and gave me something I didn’t realize I needed—a day to feel beautiful, confident, and completely at peace. I usually struggle with self-esteem, but their kindness and talent helped me feel like the best version of myself. I’ve never felt so comfortable or so seen. I highly recommend following and supporting them—you’ll be so glad you did.
🇬🇾🇨🇦🇺🇸💜💙💚🧡🙏🏾
💜 Kayla Stambaugh
