Kidney Patient Advocacy, Advisory & National Speaker
Kidney Transplant Story
A personal journey that reshaped how I lead, serve, and advocate for others living with kidney disease.
Where This Journey Began
This journey did not begin in a boardroom.
It began with a diagnosis that forced everything to slow down and brought life into sharp focus.
The road to transplant tested my strength, my faith, and my understanding of what truly matters. Through months of uncertainty, hospital visits, and reflection, I made a promise to myself.
If given another chance, I would live with greater purpose.
A Second Chance That Changed Everything
That promise became the foundation for how I lead today.
After receiving a successful kidney transplant on my birthday, I returned with more than a new organ. I returned with clarity, humility, and a renewed responsibility to serve others with intention.
That second chance carried me forward for twenty five years.
Years of life, leadership, and impact made possible by a gift I never take lightly
How This Experience Shaped My Leadership
Living with kidney disease reshaped how I measure success.
Leadership stopped being about titles or outcomes alone. It became about stewardship. About honoring the moments we are given and using them well.
It changed how I show up for people.
How I build teams.
How I lead through uncertainty.
Where I Am Today
This past year, my transplanted kidney failed, and I am now on peritoneal dialysis while awaiting another transplant.
During the evaluation process, doctors also discovered kidney cancer. It was caught early, treated successfully, and today I am cancer free.
This chapter deepened my resolve to advocate for early detection, patient education, and compassionate care.
Why I Advocate
Kidney disease is not just a medical condition.
It is a life altering journey that affects families, careers, mental health, and identity.
I advocate to bring visibility, clarity, and humanity to the patient experience. To ensure people feel informed, supported, and seen.
Advocacy, for me, is leadership in action.
Advocacy in Action
My advocacy work includes:
• Sharing lived experience to raise awareness
• Speaking to organizations and communities about kidney health
• Supporting patient education and early detection efforts
• Partnering with nonprofits and healthcare leaders to amplify impact
• Elevating kidney patient voices to shape healthcare policy, funding and legislation.
This work is personal. It is purposeful. And it is ongoing.
A Continuing Commitment
I do not share this story for sympathy.
I share it because stories create connection, and connection drives change.
As I continue this journey, my commitment remains the same. To lead with empathy. To serve with intention. And to advocate for those navigating kidney disease with strength and dignity.
