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Americo was born with Autosomal Recessive Polycystic Kidney Disease (ARPKD), according to a GoFundMe campaign organized on his behalf.
The disease causes cysts to cover the inside and outside of the kidneys and inhibits them from working properly. The disease has brought Americo to the ICU and transplant floor multiple times due to his declining health, the GoFundMe continued.
"Every admission confirms what we already knew, Americo needs a new 'bean' and he is the bravest two-year-old we have ever met," organizer Michelle Hart wrote on the campaign page.
"Americo has been fighting since the day he was born and it's time to step up and help him and his family as they prepare for the next chapter in his kidney transplant journey."
Americo's father Josh, who is a Springfield firefighter, and mother Ashley have traveled to and from Boston on a bi-weekly basis for his treatment. The trips have become incredibly taxing for the family, so they are looking for housing accommodations closer to the city, Hart explained.
Now that Americo has officially been listed on the National Kidney Donor list, it is only a matter of time before he finds his match. In the meantime, funds raised from the GoFundMe will help ease the family's financial stress associated with Americo's transplant and recovery.
"Your donation will allow Americo's family to focus solely on their family and recovery without the fear of financial hardship," Hart wrote. "This incredible family deserves all the support we can give them. Americo deserves this chance at life."
The GoFundMe is looking to raise $50,000. People interested in donating can click here.
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