About Us

The founders of Hugs & Kidneys were inspired by their daughter, Zola, when she was diagnosed with end-stage renal disease. Zola was 6 years old when she became critically ill. Her family was overcome with fear and helplessness. The amazing intensive care unit and nephrologists were able to stabilize her, develop a care plan, and educate her parents on the next steps such as dialysis treatment. The ultimate goal was kidney transplantation, but the journey was just beginning.

After initial hospitalization, she began hemodialysis in the only pediatric dialysis clinic in Las Vegas. Three months later and for the next year, she had in-home, nightly peritoneal dialysis. She had multiple surgeries, monthly blood draws and clinic visits, and constant monitoring and adjustments to her diet and medications to keep her stable. In February 2023, Zola received a kidney transplant donated by her mother, Rosie.

Through this entire journey, Zola remained spunky, vibrant, and resilient. She's a true warrior princess inspiring everyone around her. Zola also has severe hearing loss. She wears hearing aids and is learning American Sign Language to build her language and communication skills. While on dialysis, she did not attend school in-person and received homebound services with an ASL teacher. After her transplant recovery, she returned to school with so much enthusiasm. Zola is thriving in school, making friends, and experiencing a normal childhood. As of today, she has recovered successfully and accepted her new kidney. 

Zola and her family received an abundance of love and support from their family, friends, colleagues, medical personnel, and even strangers. They feel very fortunate and blessed, but not all families have the same support. They are committed to paying it forward through Hugs & Kidneys.

The Manasan family would like to give special thanks to the following organizations that helped Zola and inspired Hugs & Kidneys:  Summerlin Children's Hospital PICU, Davita Pediatric Dialysis Clinic, Children's Nephrology Clinic Las Vegas, Ronald McDonald House Charities, Lucile Packard Children's Hospital and Pediatric Nephrology Team, Stanford Medical Center, LVMPD Honor Guard, LVMPO Wives, Make-A-Wish Foundation Southern Nevada, Give Kids the World Resort, Vills Bros Academy, Ai'Pono Cafe,  and Buckles and Barrels for Bailey.