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In 2009, Chase Gallagher, at the age of 8, was diagnosed with Type III MPGN now known as C3G. Chase’s primary pediatrician originally misdiagnosed him, stating his swollen eyes were due to allergies, “go home, close your windows and put the central air on”. Chase’s swelling became worse and he was taken to the hospital. The treating physician, by chance, knew to question the inverse relationship between Chase’s albumin and creatinine levels. His first kidney biopsy identified electron-dense deposits in different locations along the glomerular basement membranes, he had C3G. “The prevalence of C3G is estimated at 2-3 per 1,000,000 people.” National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD), January 19,2023.
At this time, the only course of treatment was to place Chase on high dosages of steroids which he was on for over five years. The high dosages of steroids caused him to gain a major amount of weight, at one point he was 80 – 100 pounds overweight. This was very impactful to a child who wanted to be like the other kids. Chase had always been involved in physical sports like basketball and baseball. The weight gain had a negative impact on these physical sports and during a baseball game while running to second base his kneecap blew out.
On August 26, 2021, Chase’s kidney function was at 5% when he received his father’s kidney. The transplant was successful, the kidney started working immediately with Chase losing approximately 30 pounds of fluid.
In true, Chase fashion, he found a new sport, less physical, international trap shooting. He traveled throughout the US and Internationally, competing as an Olympic hopeful. Chase won many competitions & medals! Also, while in high school Chase started his own landscape business and upon graduation expanded his business and now employs over five people year-round.
In 2021, Chase’s C3G advanced to the point that he needed a kidney transplant. It was a very stressful time for Chase, trying to find a kidney donor, getting the donor approved to be able to schedule the surgery. On August 26, 2021, Chase’s kidney function was at 5% when he received his father’s kidney. The transplant was successful, the kidney started working immediately with Chase losing approximately 30 pounds of fluid. Since the kidney transplant, Chase has had several kidney biopsies – thankfully the C3G has not returned to an active state. Chase continues to take a variety of medications such as prednisone, cellcept, blood pressure, and has a monthly infusion of Betatacept, anti-rejection medication. On August 26, 2022, exactly one year after Chase’s kidney transplant, he ran a marathon!
