Issac Bruce-Whitely, from Debenham, Suffolk, was diagnosed with stage three chronic kidney disease (CKD) when he was two years old.

This has now progressed to stage five, with his kidneys working at 9-12% capacity.

Issac was also rushed to Great Ormond Street Hospital on Saturday after his condition worsened.

Issac is described as a "ray of sunshine" by his family. (Image: Contributed)

His grandad and carer, Hughie Bruce, 60, says he needs a transplant "as soon as possible" to save his life.

"I really don't want to bury a grandson", he said.

"Isaac is so full of love, and he has a huge heart.

Issac's grandad Hughie Bruce is searching for a donor. (Image: Contributed)

"To see what he is going through has been heart breaking.

"We need to get this young man a transplant."

Figures released by NHS Blood and Transplant show that 4,900 people died while actively waiting for a lifesaving transplant over the past 10 years

Kidney Research UK says there are nearly 7,000 people in the UK who are waiting for a kidney transplant, and the numbers have been steadily increasing.

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Despite his disease, Issac raised thousands by walking a mile a day in 2022 and 2024 in memory for charities Arthur’s Angels and Walk For Life.

His family describe him as a "ray of sunshine".

However, he has now reached the stage where he has to receive dialysis six nights a week, and his doctors say he needs a kidney donation within about two years.

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Doctors also say he needs to receive a kidney donation within about two years, and he has been on the list since 2024.

"It can be incredibly difficult", added Emma, Isaac's grandmother.

"Especially when he goes downhill.

"He does bounce back, but he's never the same as he was before.

"You lose a little bit of him every time it happens. We are desperate for that transplant."

Neither of Issac's grandparents can be donors due to having various health problems. His mum and dad are a match, but they also have their own health issues, the family said.

Since being diagnosed, Issac, who is blood group O, has endured countless operations and emergency, close-call trips to the hospital.

Issac has been cared for at Great Ormond Street Hospital. (Image: Contributed)

In October and November, he was admitted to Ipswich Hospital for enhanced dialysis and further treatments, spending about four weeks on a ward.

He has also been identified as the child most in need of a campaign for donorship by Gosh and Guy's & St Thomas' Hospital NHS Foundation Trust in London.

Mr Bruce added: "Please, if there is anyone who feels that they could donate, get tested.

"Even if you are not a match for anyone, find out about it because there are other kids out there as well."

Someone is considered a suitable donor if their blood type is compatible with the recipient's, they are physically and psychologically healthy, and they have not been pressured into being a donor or offered money.

© Eastern Daily Press