If it is still partially functioning, it is called type 2 diabetes. The pancreas produces insulin and other fluids, which the body uses in the processes of metabolism and digestion. Diabetes can also cause other problems with vision, circulation, the nervous system, and kidneys. The function of the kidneys is to filter the blood, removing the toxins that are produced during normal body activity. As my kidney function progressively decreased, the level of the toxins in my blood increased until they reached a point where I had to begin dialysis.
Dialysis is a process which artificially imitated the filtering process.
It is not a complete imitation, but it does keep people alive. As with diabetes, some people respond better than others to this treatment. But before 1963, this treatment was not even invented. I went on a transplant waiting list. Currently there are over 70,000 people waiting for a transplant of some sort.