Kent's Kidney Stories artwork

Kent's Kidney Stories

138 episodes - English - Latest episode: 10 days ago - ★★★★★ - 14 ratings

Kent's Kidney Stories is hosted by Kent Bressler, a Registered Nurse, AAKP Board of Director, Ambassador, Kidney Transplant Recipient, and Vice President of Kidney Solutions. He will share his journey, some insight he has learned, and interview fellow Kidney Warriors and leaders in the Kidney Community.

Medicine Health & Fitness dialysis advocate kidney kidneytransplant transplant
Homepage Apple Podcasts Google Podcasts Overcast Castro Pocket Casts RSS feed

Episodes

Episode 87: Myles Jackson - Mindset Mentor, Wellness Advocate, & Author

December 22, 2021 07:00 - 58 minutes - 80.5 MB

Myles "MJay" Jackson is the owner of New Image Wellness Co, an in-person and online personal trainer, and head strength and conditioning coach at Atlanta Technical College. Myles works as a Mindset Mentor, Wellness Advocate, and Author to meet his clients where they are and work with them to break free of the habits, routines, and behaviors that keeps them emotionally, mentally, and physically from living their healthiest life. Myles is an expert in performance enhancement training, weigh...

Episode 86: George Franklin - Quarter Century Club President

December 03, 2021 12:00 - 1 hour - 105 MB

The 46 on George Franklin’s jersey indicates the number of years that he has had his deceased kidney transplant. Listen in as Kent and George discuss kidney transplant longevity. Click here for more learn more about the Quarter Century Club President. For more information and to order the book mentioned during this episode, Because of Organ Donation, click here. If you have questions regarding items discussed during this episode or would like more information about Kidney Solutions wee...

Episode 85: Shannon Mulroy, Altruistic Kidney Donor

November 10, 2021 05:54 - 45 minutes - 62 MB

Kent gets an opportunity to interview Shannon Mulroy. Shannon’s daughter has FSGS and had a transplant. That is just the beginning Shannon decided that it would be a good deal to become an altruistic kidney donor. After she had decided she talked it over with there husband. If you want to know what happened you will need to listen to the Podcast. Very interesting things began to happen after they had their conversation check it out. Click here to read more about Shannon's amazing story. ...

Episode 84: Matthew Novelli Needs a Living Kidney Donor. Are YOU the One?

October 28, 2021 03:19 - 31 minutes - 42.9 MB

Matthew has long-standing kidney disease and is in search of a kidney donor. He tells Kent his story and needs. If YOU would like to begin the process to see if you are a match for Matthew, click here to fill out a short form. Follow Matthew's kidney journey at Matthew's Kidney Search. If you have questions regarding items discussed during this episode or would like more information about Kidney Solutions weekly Support Group, contact Kent at [email protected] For mor...

Episode 83: Dr. Velma Scantlebury - America’s 1st African-American, Female Transplant Surgeon

October 15, 2021 04:46 - 46 minutes - 63.4 MB

Kent gets a great opportunity to converse with Dr. Velma Scantlebury. Dr. Scantlebury is a transplant surgeon and author of Beyond Every Wall, Becoming the 1st Black Female Transplant Surgeon. She is an advocate for preemptive transplant and increasing diversity and women in surgery. To learn more about Dr. Velma Scantlebury or to purchase her book, click here to visit her website. If you have questions regarding items discussed during this episode or would like more information about Ki...

Episode 82: Fez Anwan - 3 Time Kidney Transplant Recipient

September 30, 2021 05:31 - 1 hour - 87.2 MB

Kent has a conversation with Fez Awan from the UK. Fez was born with renal failure, and throughout his life, he has had 3 kidney transplants. In addition, he has used all modalities of dialysis. In the UK he volunteers for a few agencies/charities to bring more awareness and education regarding organ donation and kidney health. If you have questions regarding items discussed during this episode or would like more information about Kidney Solutions weekly Support Group, contact Kent at kent...

Episode 81: Sejal Patel Needs A Kidney Donor. Are YOU The One?

September 30, 2021 02:30 - 26 minutes - 36.8 MB

After she finished medical school, Sejal Patel learned she needed a new kidney and pancreas to survive.  Sejal received the gift of life and decided to use her medical degree to go into clinical research and work in transplant nephrology to help others like herself.  Now her donated kidney is failing.  She looks forward to a transplant so she can continue caring for patients via the medical field. Sajel is registered on the Kidney Transplant Waiting List at Mayo Clinic Transplant in Phoeni...

Episode 80: Mary Baliker Four-Time Kidney Transplant Recipient

September 17, 2021 04:21 - 45 minutes - 61.9 MB

Mary Baliker was diagnosed with kidney disease at the age of nine and has undergone dialysis during various times in her life. At 17, she had a kidney transplant from her brother, Doug. Since then, she has had three more transplants, the last of which was in 1999. As a result of this life-long experience, she cherishes her life and possesses a strong interest to help improve healthcare. Click here to purchase Mary's book, Maria Never Gives Up. If you have questions regarding items discuss...

Episode 79: Austin Lee - Two-Time Kidney Transplant Recipient

August 27, 2021 13:30 - 1 hour - 89.9 MB

Kidney disease is tough enough to deal with as an adult. When it begins in early childhood it is even more devastating and difficult to adjust to. Kent takes time to talk with Austin Lee, a two-time kidney transplant recipient who was transplanted at the early age of four. Listen to him explain the many challenges he and his family experienced. Through it all, you will hear a message of love and hope.  If you have questions regarding items discussed during this episode or would like more i...

Episode 78: Ben Street & Jasper Sharp - Ice Cream, Schnitzel, and the Gift of Life

August 24, 2021 14:30 - 50 minutes - 46.6 MB

Ben lives in London, England and Jasper lives in Vienna, Austria. Jasper needed a kidney transplant so his good friend, Ben agreed to donate. Ben flew to Vienna, Austria, and found out he was a match. Then the fun began! Covid came and Jasper had to have surgery, and all along Ben stayed firm in his commitment to donate. Listen to their story it is absolutely amazing. If you have questions regarding items discussed during this episode or would like more information about Kidney Solutions w...

Episode 77: Jill Hammonds - Mother, Wife, and Kidney Warrior

August 20, 2021 04:35 - 45 minutes - 42.1 MB

Kent talks to Jill Hammonds who has been living with FSGS for over 30 years. She was diagnosed at 14 years of age. She talks about her course of treatment and her transplants. One courageous and tough mother, wife, and kidney warrior. If you have questions regarding items discussed during this episode or would like more information about Kidney Solutions weekly Support Group, contact Kent at [email protected] For more information about Kidney Solutions, visit them at www....

Episode 76: AAKP Ambassador Jonathan Traylor 1 Year Transplant Anniversary Special

August 12, 2021 03:55 - 45 minutes - 41.3 MB

Kent talks with a good friend and kidney warrior Jonathan Traylor in this AAKP one-year kidneyversary session. Jonathan talks about the importance of keeping in close touch with his care team and expresses his feelings about mentorship and support during his first year of transplant. Please Like and Subscribe all things Hope with Jonathan: Website Facebook Instagram Podcast YouTube  Click here for more information on the American Association of Kidney Patients (AAKP).  If you ha...

Episode 75: Living Kidney Donor - Kathryn Robison

August 09, 2021 13:00 - 45 minutes - 62.3 MB

What does it take to be a living kidney donor? Listen to Kent’s interview with Kathryn Robison a second-year Medical Student at Texas Tech. She has a frank conversation with Kent about giving her kidney to her older brother. Her open and gentle presentation allows you to understand how important living donation is. What it means to your family and to yourself. She discusses her take on the importance of being the decision-maker and stresses the importance of maintaining your health after the...

Episode 74: AAKP Ambassador Brandi Nunez 3 Year Transplant Anniversary Special

July 01, 2021 00:21 - 53 minutes - 72.9 MB

Brandi is celebrating her third kidneyversary and talks about being a PKD patient and her transplant. Her story is of interest because she is the only one in the family who has PKD. Click here for more information on the American Association of Kidney Patients (AAKP).  If you have questions regarding items discussed during this episode, contact Kent at [email protected] For more information on Kidney Solutions, visit them at www.kidneysolutions.org Host: Kent Bressler...

Episode 73: Bernadette Fordystek Needs a Kidney Donor. Are You The One?

June 22, 2021 03:33 - 42 minutes - 58.8 MB

Bernadette Fordystek is stuck between a rock and a hard place. She is a CKD patient who has done just about everything she can to find a Living Donor. Kent and Bernadette's conversation centered on her difficulties finding a donor and the faith she has had to continue. Donors are very hard to come by and she reflects on her difficulties but stresses that she has a positive attitude and a faith in God that he will send a donor. Take a listen and don’t forget to subscribe and comment at the en...

Episode 72: Kristen Hood, MSN, RN - Director of Clinical Outreach for NephCure

June 06, 2021 05:18 - 1 hour - 83.5 MB

In this episode, Kent speaks with Kristen Hood, Director of Clinical Outreach for NephCure. She currently attending Bryan College of Health Sciences for her Doctorate in Nursing Education. Kristen’s nursing background ranges from medical-surgical nursing, neonatal nursing, labor/delivery and postpartum, pediatrics, and school nursing. During today's conversation, Kristen shares her son Logan's journey of being diagnosed and enduring Minimal Change Disease (MCD) and Juvenile Psoriatic Arthr...

Episode 71: Ed Hickey Vice President of AAKP

May 22, 2021 15:24 - 42 minutes - 58.3 MB

Welcome back! Kent interviews Ed Hickey, Vice President of the American Association of Kidney Patients (AAKP). Ed gives us valuable insight into the patient center focus at AAKP. Ed has been instrumental in dialogue with the Veterans Administration and Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs). He talks about his take on Veteran issues especially for those with kidney disease. Have to listen get in on some valuable information. To learn more about the American Association of Kidney Patients, g...

Episode 70: Nhan Phan Life Coach at Kidney Solutions

May 12, 2021 13:00 - 35 minutes - 49 MB

Meet Nhan Pham, Life Coach at Kidney Solutions! Born in Hanoi, Vietnam, Nhan grew up in Moscow, Russia, before coming to the UK for her university studies. She's been in the UK since 2002 and is now based in London. If you have questions regarding items discussed during this episode or register to work with Nhan, contact Kent at [email protected] For more information on Kidney Solutions, visit them at www.kidneysolutions.org Host: Kent Bressler Audio Engineeer: Jason N...

Episode 69 Kent Bressler's 34 Year Kidney Transplant Anniversary Special

April 30, 2021 14:30 - 1 hour - 86.8 MB

We have a very special episode for you today. We are celebrating Kent Bressler's 34 year Kidney Transplant anniversary! Our Audio Engineer, Jason steps in front of the microphone and interviews Kent as he reflects on his transplant and the gift, his brother Kip blessed him with. Sit back, relax, and enjoy this special episode.  If you have questions regarding items discussed during this episode, contact Kent at [email protected] For more information on Kidney Solutions, v...

Episode 68: Amanda Grandinetti, Kidney Warrior & Doctoral Candidate

April 26, 2021 03:45 - 45 minutes - 61.9 MB

In this episode, Kent speaks with Amanda Grandinetti, a double transplant recipient who has battled Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) since she was in her teens. She is a doctoral candidate and has been in the kidney advocacy space for nearly her whole life. If you have questions regarding items discussed during this episode, contact Kent at [email protected] For more information on Kidney Solutions, visit them at www.kidneysolutions.org Host: Kent Bressler Pro...

Episode 67: Fouad T. Chebib, M.D. Mayo Clinic Nephrologist

April 10, 2021 16:22 - 55 minutes - 75.5 MB

Dr. Fouad T. Chebib, is a nephrologist, with Mayo Clinic. His clinical focus includes expertise in the management of Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) and its complications. Kent and Dr. Chebib discuss genetic testing in this episode. If you have questions regarding items discussed during this episode, contact Kent at [email protected] For more information on Kidney Solutions, visit them at www.kidneysolutions.org Host: Kent Bressler Producer: Jason Nunez

Episode 66: AAKP Ambassador Toni Martin's 3 Year Transplant Anniversary Special

April 03, 2021 21:17 - 45 minutes - 61.8 MB

Kent interviews Toni Martin a two-time kidney transplant recipient. Toni discusses her journey with kidney disease and touches on her role as an advocate. Another in a series of AAKP Kidney anniversaries. Click here for more information on the American Association of Kidney Patients (AAKP).  If you have questions regarding items discussed during this episode, contact Kent at [email protected] For more information on Kidney Solutions, visit them at www.kidneysolutions.or...

Episode 65: Jason Hale - Built to Last

March 30, 2021 03:57 - 51 minutes - 71.1 MB

Jason has what we call “grit”. He has had two transplants in his lifetime. His kidney disease began at the age of 8. He was on dialysis for a long time before his second transplant. There is always hope for a transplant if you don’t believe us listen to Jason’s story. Kent has a great talk with Jason Hale If you have questions regarding items discussed during this episode, contact Kent at [email protected] For more information on Kidney Solutions, visit them at www.kidney...

Episode 64: AAKP Ambassador Becky Ronkowski’s 21 Year Transplant Anniversary Special

March 21, 2021 01:15 - 46 minutes - 64 MB

Kent talks with Becky Ronkowski about her kidney transplant anniversary. Hear how she traveled through FSGS and transplant. She also talks about her spouse be her living donor. Click here for more information on the American Association of Kidney Patients (AAKP).  If you have questions regarding items discussed during this episode, contact Kent at [email protected] For more information on Kidney Solutions, visit them at www.kidneysolutions.org Host: Kent Bressler Pro...

Episode 63: Dr. Eliot Heher - Transplant Nephrologist

March 10, 2021 21:00 - 37 minutes - 51.7 MB

Kent interviews a friend and co-founder of Square knot Health, Inc. Dr. Eliot Heher is from the Boston, Mass area. He is a transplant nephrologist with a penchant for wanting to see patients receive a transplant before they have to undergo dialysis. If you have questions regarding items discussed during this episode, contact Kent at [email protected] For more information on Kidney Solutions, visit them at www.kidneysolutions.org Host: Kent Bressler Producer: Jason Nunez

Episode 62: AAKP Ambassador Robert Friedman’s 3 Year Transplant Anniversary Special

March 06, 2021 20:44 - 44 minutes - 61.1 MB

Kent and AAKP celebrate Robert (Bob) Friedman's Kidneyversary. Bob is a very knowledgeable Kidney Warrior and imparts some valuable information about kidney transplant and kidney disease in general. A delight to listen to and thanks to Bob for coming on. Click here for more information on the American Association of Kidney Patients (AAKP).  If you have questions regarding items discussed during this episode, contact Kent at [email protected] For more information on Kidn...

Episode 61 Lisa Baxter - Pearls of Wisdom from a Kidney Warrior

February 12, 2021 16:44 - 40 minutes - 56 MB

Welcome back! In today’s episode, Kent has a conversation with the one and only. Lisa Baxter. She endured dialysis for 12 years until she received "the call." Listen in, as Lisa shares her story and shares some pearls of wisdom for all Kidney Warriors.  Don't forget to subscribe to the Lisa Baxter Show YouTube Channel. If you have questions regarding items discussed during this episode, contact Kent at [email protected] For more information on Kidney Solutions, visit th...

Episode 60: Peter Maag, PhD Executive Chairman of CareDx

February 05, 2021 22:41 - 39 minutes - 53.7 MB

Kent has an open conversation with Peter Maag, PhD, the current Executive Chairman of the Board of CareDx. Mr. Maag has been instrumental in the growth of CareDx and shares the company's focus on pre and post-transplant care with an emphasis on data use and the human element of the transplant continuum of care. If you have questions regarding items discussed during this episode, contact Kent at [email protected] For more information on Kidney Solutions, visit them at www....

Episode 59: AAKP Ambassador Charles Cranford’s 10th Transplant Anniversary Special

February 04, 2021 04:24 - 47 minutes - 65.6 MB

Charles Cranford worked for the Federal Government for just over 40 years and retired as the Director of the Eastern Management Development Center in Shepherdstown, WV. He is a native of Chicago and was transplanted 10 years ago at Johns Hopkins. His wife is a living donor and he's eternally grateful for her generosity and love. If you have questions regarding items discussed during this episode, contact Kent at [email protected] For more information on Kidney Solutions, ...

Episode 58 AAKP Ambassador Lana Schmidt’s 5th Transplant Anniversary Special

February 01, 2021 05:50 - 32 minutes - 44.3 MB

Kent talks with Lana Schmidt on her kidney transplant anniversary. After being diagnosed with an uncommon disease called Goodpasture's Syndrome, she endured dialysis for 13 years. She received a kidney transplant using a specialized drug, Eculizumab (Soliris), because of her high antibodies. She has been a long time kidney advocate and is on the American Association of Kidney Patients Board of Directors and Executive Committee. If you have questions regarding items discussed during this ep...

Episode 57: Two-Time Kidney Transplant Recipient &AAKP Ambassador Chef Oliver Hale Transplant Anniversary Special

January 29, 2021 23:29 - 50 minutes - 68.7 MB

Kent has the privilege of interviewing world-renowned Chef, Oliver Hale. They talk about Oliver’s journey to transplant and how he has combined his experience with kidney disease and transplant with his love for cooking. It is a story of success and perseverance. His son Jason was also in the mix to give his father a boost. Jason has received two transplants but our conversation is with his dad. Jason will be invited in to tell his story at a later date. If you have questions regarding ite...

Episode 56: Ivey Dennen - Kidney & Pancreas Transplant Recipient

January 22, 2021 23:15 - 34 minutes - 47.6 MB

Welcome back! In today’s episode, Kent has a conversation with  Ivey Dennen about her kidney/pancreas transplant. Ivey had been a type one diabetic for several years before her double organ transplant. Listen in, as Ivey shares how it came about and how she has progressed. You will be amazed. If you have questions regarding items discussed during this episode, contact Kent at [email protected] For more information on Kidney Solutions, visit them at www.kidneysolutions.org...

Episode 55: Chelsea Roman - A Positive Attitude Will See You Through

January 22, 2021 18:45 - 36 minutes - 50.8 MB

Welcome back! In today’s episode, Kent speaks with Chelsea Roman. She shares her inspirational journey to kidney transplant. Chelsea has battled major health concerns with her kidneys since birth. She celebrated the one year anniversary of her kidney transplant in November of 2020. She also reflects on when she received the call for her transplant and what she does to show appreciation for this tremendous gift. She is now back at work, with NxStage as a Patient Consultant.  If you have que...

Episode 54: Jason Nunez 1 Year Kidney Transplant Anniversary Special

January 17, 2021 02:50 - 34 minutes - 46.9 MB

Welcome back! In today’s episode, Kent speaks with our Audio Engineer/Producer, Jason Nunez. He endured Peritoneal Dialysis and a Right Foot Below-the-Knee Amputation before receiving the gift of life with a Kidney Transplant on 01/16/20. Kent and Jason have a great conversation about Jason’s Kidney Journey, his return to full-time work after 4 years, testing positive for COVID-19, and much more! Follow Jason’s Kidney Journey on his Facebook Page.  Tune in to 2 Guys 6 Kidneys with Jason ...

Episode 53: AAKP Ambassador Curtis Warfield’s 5th Kidney Transplant Anniversary Special

January 09, 2021 04:54 - 36 minutes - 50.2 MB

Welcome back! In today’s episode, Kent speaks with AAKP’s Ambassador, Curtis Warfield. He is a typical CKD patient with a great story about his journey to dialysis and transplant. Kent finds out that he has personal views about the need to be your own advocate. We join in celebrating Curtis' 5 year Kidney Transplant Anniversary!  If you or someone you know would like to be spotlighted on an episode of Kent’s Kidney Stories on your Kidney Transplant Anniversary contact Kent at kent.bressler...

Episode 52 Chance & Ashleigh Eckert Husband and Wife + Kidney Transplant Recipient and Living Donor

December 31, 2020 19:58 - 36 minutes - 49.9 MB

Welcome back! In today’s episode, Kent speaks with Chance and Ashleigh Eckert about preemptive living donor transplants. Chance was diagnosed with FSGS in his early twenties, while he was in college. He received a transplant five months ago at the age of 28. They share their transplant journey. The Eckert's are an inspiring young couple! Click play and let's hear their incredible story.  If you have questions regarding items discussed during this episode, contact Kent at kent.bressler@kidn...

Episode 51: U.S. Senate Approval of Immunosuppressive Drug Coverage

December 23, 2020 00:44 - 8 minutes - 11.9 MB

Welcome back! In today’s episode, Kent records a podcast while on his morning walk. He reflects on the monumental news of the U.S. Senate approval of immunosuppressive drug coverage for Kidney Transplant Patients.  If you have questions regarding items discussed during this episode, contact Kent at [email protected] For more information on Kidney Solutions, visit them at www.kidneysolutions.org Host: Kent Bressler Producer: Jason Nunez

Episode 50: Bruce Craft - 50 Years Post Kidney Transplant

December 18, 2020 20:12 - 46 minutes - 63.2 MB

Welcome back! In today’s milestone episode, Kent speaks with his friend and President of Kidney Solutions Board of Directors, Bruce Craft.  He received his Kidney Transplant from his Sister, nearly 50 years ago from his sister! Bruce shares his experience thus far as a transplant recipient. Later in the episode, our Producer Jason joins in the episode. As a recent kidney transplant recipient, Jason took the opportunity to pick Bruce and Kent’s brian and asked them to provide some insight for...

Episode 49: Kent Talks about Testing for Rejection with Shephalie, Michelle, and Mike from Natera

December 16, 2020 03:05 - 34 minutes - 47.6 MB

Welcome back! In today’s episode, Kent speaks with Shephalie, Michelle, and Mike from Natera about the benefits of Prospera when a Transplant Patient is faced with testing for Rejection. Kent and his wonderful guests help unpack Prospera and all that this Rejection Assessment Tool has to offer. We learn: How is Prospera used? Does it require a biopsy? What research has gone into this test? Much more! For more information on Prospera, click here. If you have questions regarding item...

Episode 48: Let’s Talk about Genetic Testing With Christine & Trudy of Natera

December 08, 2020 06:04 - 39 minutes - 54.7 MB

Welcome back! In today’s episode, Kent speaks with Christine and Trudy from Natera. At the beginning of the episode, Kent shares a profound message from Matthew Rabinowitz, Founder of Natera. We learn quite a bit about genetic testing, such as: What are the benefits of genetic testing?" How much does testing cost will my insurance cover it? How will knowing this information help my family members? And much more! For more information on Natera Genetic Testing, click here. If you hav...

Episode 47: Armand Halter - Be Your Own Advocate

November 30, 2020 12:00 - 39 minutes - 53.6 MB

Welcome back! In today’s episode, Kent speaks to his friend, Armand Halter. Armand initially learned that his kidneys were failing after donating blood. He endured Peritoneal Dialysis for 3 years. During this time, Armand worked and traveled. We learn a very unique aspect of Armand’s transplant. He and Kent reflect on the emotions that are tied to receiving a Kidney Transplant. Later in the episode, we learn about the wonderful work Armand is doing with the National Kidney Foundation's Peer ...

Episode 46: AAKP Ambassador Gail Glasser’s 5th Kidney Transplant Anniversary Special

November 28, 2020 21:07 - 32 minutes - 44.8 MB

Welcome back! In today’s episode, Kent speaks with AAKP’s Ambassador, Gail Glasser. We join in celebrating Gail's 5 year Kidney Transplant Anniversary! Gail has lived with kidney disease since she was 18 years old when an undiagnosed strep throat impacted her kidney. Gail's nephrologist was ahead of his time and believed in a treatment plan that was supplemented with specific diets and vitamins. This made it possible for Gail to go 30+ years without requiring dialysis or a transplant. She ul...

Episode 45: Edward Drake II, Founder and CEO of The YNOTT? Foundation

November 02, 2020 17:38 - 37 minutes - 51.5 MB

Welcome back! In today’s episode, Kent speaks with Edward Drake, II. “Why me?” Ed asked himself when he was suddenly and unexpectedly diagnosed with renal failure at age 20. Then he asked himself “Why not me?” This prompted him to use his negative experience in a positive way—to spread the word that while it is true certain people are at an increased risk, kidney disease can happen to anyone, at any time, and that’s why it’s so important to get checked early.  Edward received a kidney tran...

Episode 44: AAKP Ambassador Lindsay Gath 3rd Kidney Transplant Anniversary Special

October 27, 2020 01:33 - 47 minutes - 65.8 MB

Welcome back! In today’s episode, Kent speaks with AAKP’s Ambassador, Lindsay Gath. She is married and a mother of two. She was diagnosed with Membranoproliferative Glomerulonephritis (MPGN) when she was 11 years old. In 2016 after a visit with her Nephrologist, she was informed that it was time to start considering Dialysis. Lindsay shares her journey in searching for a Living Donor and Preemptive Transplant. She received an outpouring of support when she shared his story on Social Media. T...

Episode 43: AAKP Ambassador Laura Ellsworth 21st Kidney Transplant Anniversary Special

October 21, 2020 06:23 - 48 minutes - 66.9 MB

Welcome back! In today’s episode, Kent speaks with AAKP’s Ambassador, Laura Ellsworth. She was diagnosed with Chronic Kidney Disease when she was a Senior in High School. Laura shares her experience of feeling the effects of CKD leading up to receiving her transplant from a very special person. Kent and Laura also talk about Preemptive Transplants, the importance of having Health Insurance as a Transplant Recipient, and much more!  Please join us in congratulating Laura on her Kidney Trans...

Episode 42: AAKP Ambassador Brandy Webster 3rd Kidney Transplant Anniversary Special

October 17, 2020 19:09 - 45 minutes - 62.2 MB

Welcome back! In today’s episode, Kent speaks with AAKP’s Ambassador, Brandy Webster. Brandy lives in Utah with her wife Lyndzie and their beautiful daughter. She shares her story of being diagnosed with IGA Nephropathy (also known as Berger’s Disease), her choice to forgo dialysis, and pursue a preemptive Kidney Transplant. Later in the episode, We learn which special person in her life became her Donor and how the Kidney Community helped as her Kidney Transplant approached. This is truly a...

Episode 41: Jennifer Jones - Retired Marine & Active Duty Kidney Warrior

October 12, 2020 21:53 - 43 minutes - 60.1 MB

Welcome back! In today’s episode, Kent speaks with AAKP’s Ambassador, AAKP Ambassador Jennifer Jones. A retired Marine Veteran Jennifer’s life changed drastically in a matter of months due to kidney disease. Her kidneys began to fail while deployed to Afghanistan which resulted in immediate medical evacuation to Germany to receive a diagnosis of Nephrotic Syndrome. Upon returning to the states, she was immediately admitted as a patient at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethe...

Episode 40: Tamera Powell Needs a Kidney Donor. Are you the one?

October 05, 2020 23:41 - 16 minutes - 22.1 MB

Welcome back! In today’s episode, Kent speaks with Tamera Powell from San Antonio, TX. She is currently performing Peritoneal Dialysis at home, seven days a week. She is experiencing kidney failure. Tamera is on the Kidney Donor waitlist with Methodist Hospital Speciality and Transplant Center and is searching for a Living Kidney Donor. Her strong faith in God has encouraged her to seek a donor and dream of starting a family after transplant.  She would like to get back to work and continu...

Episode 39: AAKP Ambassador Alana Hunnicutt 4th Kidney Transplant Anniversary Special

September 26, 2020 05:32 - 30 minutes - 42.2 MB

Welcome back! In today’s episode, Kent speaks with AAKP’s Ambassador, Alana Hunnicutt. She shares her story of being diagnosed with FSGS, receiving a Preemptive Kidney Transplant from her Brother, it’s unfortunate rejection, time on Dialysis, and her second Transplant, from her Husband! Alana speaks on the importance of being your own advocate and how she was able to receive her second Transplant after being rejected by several Transplant Programs. This is truly a story of resilience and not...

Episode 38: Payal Shah - Genetic Testing and Kidney Disease

September 21, 2020 18:22 - 37 minutes - 51.6 MB

Welcome back! In today’s episode, Kent speaks with Payal Shah. She is a good friend and has become a regular guest on the Podcast. Payal received a Kidney Transplant at the age of 15 and is now a Doctor of Pharmaceuticals. Kent and Payal have a great conversation in regards to Genetic testing as it relates to Kidney Disease.  See links below to some (not-inclusive) companies that provide genetic testing for rare diseases that lead to End-Stage Kidney Disease: Disclaimer: Genetic testing ...