You all know Easton needs a kidney transplant but do you know why?

Easton was diagnosed with Bladder Outlet Obstruction at 18 weeks gestation. Bladder outlet obstruction, also known as lower urinary tract obstruction, is a rare birth defect. In this condition, there is a partial or complete blockage (obstruction) in the urethra, the tube that allows the bladder to empty into the amniotic sac.

Easton’s mom Ashlee underwent two Vesicoamniotic Shunt Surgeries to save Easton’s life and preserve any kidney function left in utero. This is done by using ultrasonographic guidance and color-flow Doppler, a large hollow needle is inserted into the mother’s uterus and into the baby’s bladder. A shunt (small tube) is passed through the opening created to allow the flow of urine from the bladder into the amniotic sac.

Although the surgeries were successful the amount of urine caused Easton to be diagnosed with Chronic Kidney Disease before birth.