Carter Wilson’s health battle began in March 2023, when he was just four years old. Initially hospitalized for pneumonia, doctors discovered high levels of protein in his urine, leading to a diagnosis of nephrotic syndrome—a kidney disorder that results in excessive protein loss. While many children respond well to the treatment of high-dose steroids, Carter faced severe complications, including blood clots in his lungs and abdomen, rapid kidney failure, and dangerously high blood pressure.
As his condition worsened, Carter was transferred into Dr. Susan Massengill’s care at Atrium Health Levine’s Children’s Hospital, where a kidney biopsy revealed a rare condition known as Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS). This diagnosis ultimately meant that Carter would need a kidney transplant.
In August 2023, after undergoing frequent protein infusions, Carter began dialysis and found himself spending three to four days a week in the hospital. The treatment was rigorous and came with strict fluid restrictions, limiting his ability to participate in sports and attend school. To complicate matters further, Carter’s kidney failure led to congenital heart failure.
To ease the family’s burden, Carter transitioned to peritoneal dialysis at home. This enabled Carter to return to school, bringing a sense of normalcy back to his life. Shortly after, the Wilson family received wonderful news: Carter had a living donor. Caroline Dudley, a fellow parent at Providence Day School, stepped forward after learning about Carter’s story on a family support page.
Carter received his new kidney this past spring, and the transformation has been remarkable. He’s back to doing what he loves—swimming, playing sports, learning piano, and attending Kindergarten at Providence Day. “He’s returned to his normal self and is full of life and energy,” his parents, Sadna and Dewett, shared. “We owe everything to Levine Children’s and his donor, Caroline.”
Caroline Dudley (pictured left) became Carter’s kidney donor, creating a lasting connection between the Dudley and Wilson families.
Reflecting on their journey, Sadna and Dewett expressed their deep appreciation for the care their son received: “We have the utmost respect and gratitude for Carter’s care team. We felt that Dr. Massengill provided the same level of care as if she was treating her own child. The whole team was fully invested in his care and also making sure that we were okay, including the social workers, nurses, dietitians, and technicians. The dialysis team was also wonderful. Carter wasn’t always a happy camper during treatments, but they handled it with care and grace. Carter wants to especially thank Nurse Candy, who would give him treats like Oreos and ice chips.”
Carter recently joined in celebrating Levine Children’s Hospital’s recognition by U.S. News & World Report as a “Best Children’s Hospital” for nephrology care. Next month, he and his family will participate with Team Kidney Krusaders at the 29th Annual Hopebuilders 5K, presented by Morris-Jenkins! His story is a powerful reminder of resilience and the community’s unwavering support in advancing medical care. As he continues to thrive, we celebrate not just his recovery but the inspiring journey of hope that brought him here.