Kent's Kidney Stories
138 episodes - English - Latest episode: 10 days ago - ★★★★★ - 14 ratingsKent'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.
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Episodes
Episode 37: Jennifer Milton - Blazing a Trail in the Transplant World
September 18, 2020 17:05 - 53 minutes - 73 MBWelcome back! In today’s episode, Kent speaks with Jennifer Milton. She is a Clinical Assistant Professor and the Chief Administrative Officer at the University Transplant Center (UTC) in San Antonio, TX. Kent and Jennifer speak about the exciting news regarding the upcoming National Living Donor Registry, Paired Kidney Exchange, UTC's success with Liver Transplant and Kidney Transplant from Hepatitis C Donors, her goal to double the number of Transplants by the year 2030, why her mantra in ...
Episode 36: Dr. Jonas Gadson Needs a Kidney Donor. Are you the one?
September 14, 2020 10:00 - 20 minutes - 27.9 MBWelcome back! In today’s episode, Kent speaks with Dr. Jonas Gadson, currently, he is in Beauford, SC. He learned he only has ONE kidney which is only performing at 5-11%. In 2005, Jonas took early retirement from Eastman Kodak to return home to help care for his 81-year-old, ill mother. He returned to school and earned his doctorate degree in Theology. He is currently a Minister in his church. Dr. Gadson is also very active with his area Chamber of Commerce where he completed their Lead...
Episode 35: Patti's Partners to find a Cure for PKD
September 11, 2020 10:00 - 26 minutes - 36.6 MBWelcome back! In today’s episode, Kent speaks with Patti Ruffin. She shares her amazing Transplant story and what she is doing now to help promote awareness for Kidney Disease and those in need of a Transplant. Patti is a driving force in San Antonio, TX with creating awareness for Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) and an upcoming virtual Walk for PKD. Please consider gathering your team to join the Walk or Donate. You can contact Patti with any questions regarding the Walk for PKD, at sanan...
Episode 34: AAKP Advocate Margaret Baggett 11th Kidney Transplant Anniversary Special
September 10, 2020 10:00 - 28 minutes - 39.3 MBWelcome back! In today’s episode, Kent speaks with AAKP’s Advocate, Margaret Baggett. She began Peritoneal Dialysis in October of 2008 and received “the call” in September of 2009 that she was going to receive a Kidney Transplant from a Deceased Donor. Margaret’s husband Bill joins in the conversation and the fun as well. Margaret’s story is one that brings hope to those who are in need of a Kidney Transplant later in life. There is always hope. She reflects on her time at AAKP Conventions a...
Episode 33: AAKP Ambassador Cecilia Santana’s 7th Kidney Transplant Anniversary Special
September 09, 2020 21:08 - 53 minutes - 72.8 MBWelcome back! In today’s episode, Kent speaks with AAKP’s Ambassador, Cecilia Santana. Cecilia endured Dialysis for 9 years after receiving the gift of Life with a Kidney Transplant from a Deceased Donor, 7 years ago today (09/02/20)! She reflects on her diagnosis of Chronic Kidney Disease, time on dialysis, her battle with Breast Cancer before Transplant, and much much more! Items Mentioned on the Podcast: The Rogosin Institute NYS CKD Champions New York State CKD Champions can be...
Episode 32: Steve Belcher – Striving to Educate 3 Million People about Kidney Disease
August 31, 2020 18:15 - 44 minutes - 60.7 MBWelcome back! In today’s episode, Kent speaks to Steve Belcher, RN, MSN, MS. He is a dedicated kidney advocate who began his journey 20 years ago as a dialysis nurse. This job inspired him to help as many people with kidney disease as he could. He now focuses his time entirely on his organizations Urban Kidney Alliance and the Urban Health Outreach Media, which educates the public about kidney disease. His goal? To lower rates of Chronic Kidney Disease in urban communities in Baltimore, Mary...
Episode 31: Colm Clifford – Helping Kidney Patients through Support Groups
August 28, 2020 21:58 - 28 minutes - 39.3 MBWelcome back! In today’s episode, Kent speaks the Colm Clifford. Colm is a three-time kidney transplant recipient. Born with only one functioning kidney, Colm suffered reflux as a child which damaged this kidney. He went on CAPD at the age of 11 and was transplanted in March 1990, which was not a success as the kidney never functioned. In November 1990, he received his second transplant which gave him a great quality of life for over 22 years. He found himself back on dialysis (CAPD) for two...
Episode 30: AAKP President Richard Knight
August 24, 2020 17:36 - 55 minutes - 76.3 MBWelcome back! In today’s episode, Kent speaks the President of the American Association of Kidney Patients (AAKP), Richard Knight. Richard is a former hemodialysis patient who received a kidney transplant approximately eleven years ago. He is also a member of the Board of Directors of the Mid Atlantic Renal Coalition (MARC). He was recently appointed to the Steering Committee of the Kidney Precision Medicine Project (KPMP) housed at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) National Diabetes a...
Episode 29: AAKP Presents Board Member Kevin Fowler’s 16th Kidney Transplant Anniversary Special
August 05, 2020 10:00 - 33 minutes - 45.5 MBWelcome back! In today’s episode, Kent speaks with AAKP’s Board Member and Ambassador, Kevin Fowler. Kevin reflects on his transplant story in this very special episode. If you or someone you know would like to be spotlighted on an episode of a Kent’s Kidney Stories on your Kidney Transplant Anniversary contact Kent at [email protected] For more information on Kidney Solutions, visit them at www.kidneysolutions.org Host: Kent Bressler Producer: Jason Nunez
Episode 28: Kent Podcasts on his Daily Walk & A Shout Out to Ben!
August 03, 2020 02:53 - 23 minutes - 32.9 MBWelcome back! In today’s episode, Kent records a podcast while on his morning walk. Kent recently received an email from a listener, he reflects on the wonderful message. Kent shares some thoughts about how to care for yourself throughout your Kidney journey. Have questions for Kent? Contact him at [email protected] For more information on Kidney Solutions, visit them at www.kidneysolutions.org Host: Kent Bressler Producer: Jason Nunez
Episode 27: Scott Mullin – My Brother’s Keeper
July 29, 2020 23:19 - 50 minutes - 68.8 MBWelcome back! In this episode, Kent talks with Scott Mullin. Kent calls Scott a Hero and deservedly so! Scott donated his Kidney as a part of the Kidney Paired Exchange Program. In doing so, he made it possible for our Producer, Jason Nunez, to receive Kidney Transplant in January of this year! Scott shares his journey and experience through the Transplant process. We also learn how Scott’s faith played a large role in going through this process. To make this story even more amazing, Scott’s...
Episode 26: Kent Talks about COVID-19 and being Immunosuppressed
July 27, 2020 23:03 - 23 minutes - 32.3 MBWelcome back! In this week’s episode, Kent talks about living in the time of COVID-19 while an immunosuppressed Kidney Transplant recipient. He speaks to the common phrase: “when things go back to normal.” He also gives a special shout out to a new listener who recently reached out to him. Have questions for Kent? Contact him at [email protected] For more information on Kidney Solutions, visit them at www.kidneysolutions.org Host: Kent Bressler Producer: Jason Nunez
Episode 25: Kent Talks about Kidney Solutions
July 12, 2020 01:03 - 33 minutes - 45.6 MBWelcome back! In this week’s episode, we learn about Kidney Solutions. This is a Nonprofit Organization that Kent is not a Patient Advocate for, but also the Vice President. Our Producer Jason also chimes in and provides testimony as to the Patient experience with assistance from Kidney Solutions. Have questions for Kent? Contact him at [email protected] For more information on Kidney Solutions, visit them at www.kidneysolutions.org Host: Kent Bressler Producer: Jason...
Episode 24: Let’s Talk about Belatacept (Immunosuppressive Drug)
June 10, 2020 18:39 - 31 minutes - 42.8 MBWe welcome back our friend, Payal Shah. Aside from being a Kidney Transplant recipient, she is a Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD). Payal provides great insight regarding Belatacept. What is it? How is it given? What are the Side Effects? What resources are available for Belatacept? Kent and Payal discuss all this and more! Have questions for Kent? Contact him at [email protected] For more information on Kidney Solutions, visit them at www.kidneysolutions.org Host: Kent Bress...
Episode 23: AAKP Ambassador Risa Simon’s 10th Year Kidney Transplant Anniversary Special
June 08, 2020 18:28 - 54 minutes - 75 MBWelcome back! In today’s episode, we are celebrating Risa Simon’s 10th year Kidney Transplant Anniversary. Risa is the Author of a great book titled: In Pursuit of A Better Life: The Ultimate Guide For Finding Living Kidney Donors. She reflects on her Transplant Journey, before and after Transplant. Risa also shares a great story about her Living Donor. Link to Risa’s Book: https://www.amazon.com/Pursuit-Better-Life-Ultimate-Finding/dp/1539731723 If you or someone you know would like ...
Episode 22: AAKP Ambassador Payal Shah’s 22nd Kidney Transplant Anniversary Special
May 22, 2020 10:00 - 39 minutes - 53.8 MBWelcome back! In today’s episode, we have a returning Guest! Kent speaks with Payal Shah. She reflects on her transplant journey and experience since. Payal also provides insight as to the importance of our Health from a Clinician standpoint and provides some helpful insights on the medication side, post-transplant. If you or someone you know would like to be spotlighted on an episode of a Kent’s Kidney Stories regarding a Kidney Transplant Anniversary, contact Kent at kent.bressler@kidney...
Episode 21: Kent Talks about Migraines
May 12, 2020 19:31 - 29 minutes - 40.3 MBWelcome back! In today’s episode, Kent talks about Migraines. What can trigger a Migraine? How long does an episode last? What can you do about it? Kent goes over these concerns and others. If you or a loved one has a history of migraines, this episode will be very helpful. Please remember to consult your physician if you suffer from migraines. Have questions for Kent? Contact him at [email protected] For more information on Kidney Solutions, visit them at www.kidneysol...
Episode 20: Dale Rogers and Jason Nunez discuss Kidney Transplants and Foot Amputations
May 04, 2020 10:00 - 45 minutes - 62 MBWelcome back! In today’s episode, Kent brings together two of his buddies. Dale Rogers and Jason Nunez have a discussion that covers their Kidney Transplant and Foot Amputations Journeys. Both Dale and Jason share how their Faith has carried them through. Have questions for Kent? Contact him at [email protected] For more information on Kidney Solutions, visit them at www.kidneysolutions.org Host: Kent Bressler Producer: Jason Nunez
Episode 19: AAKP Presents Kent Bressler’s 33rd Kidney Transplant Anniversary Special
April 30, 2020 10:00 - 12 minutes - 16.6 MBWelcome back! In today’s episode, Kent reflects on his transplant story as we celebrate the 33rd anniversary of his Kidney Transplant. If you or someone you know would like to be spotlighted on an episode of a Kent’s Kidney Stories on your Kidney Transplant Anniversary contact Kent at [email protected] For more information on Kidney Solutions, visit them at www.kidneysolutions.org Host: Kent Bressler Producer: Jason Nunez
Episode 19: AAKP Presents Kent Bressler’s 33rd Kidney Transplant Anniversary Special
April 30, 2020 10:00 - 12 minutes - 16.6 MBWelcome back! In today’s episode, Kent reflects on his transplant story as we celebrate the 33rd anniversary of his Kidney Transplant. If you or someone you know would like to be spotlighted on an episode of a Kent’s Kidney Stories on your Kidney Transplant Anniversary contact Kent at [email protected] For more information on Kidney Solutions, visit them at www.kidneysolutions.org Host: Kent Bressler Producer: Jason Nunez
Episode 18: AAKP Presents Jim Myers 4th Kidney Transplant Anniversary Special
April 27, 2020 21:58 - 15 minutes - 21.1 MBWelcome back! In today’s episode, Kent talks to his good friend, Jim Myers. Jim reflects on his transplant story in this very special episode. If you or someone you know would like to be spotlighted on an episode of a Kent’s Kidney Stories on your Kidney Transplant Anniversary contact Kent at [email protected] For more information on Kidney Solutions, visit them at www.kidneysolutions.org Host: Kent Bressler Producer: Jason Nunez
Episode 17: Kent Podcasts on his Daily Walk
April 22, 2020 23:12 - 15 minutes - 21.9 MBWelcome back! In today’s episode, Kent records a podcast while on his morning walk. He reflects his Kidney Transplant 32 years ago. He also asks himself the following question. After 32 years, is the Kidney his or his Brothers (his Donor)? Have questions for Kent? You can contact him at [email protected] For more information on Kidney Solutions, visit them at www.kidneysolutions.org Host: Kent Bressler Producer: Jason Nunez
Episode 16: Suzanne Ruff Author of Reluctant Donor
April 08, 2020 10:00 - 40 minutes - 55.1 MBWelcome back! In today’s episode, Kent speaks with Suzanne Ruff. She is the Author of a wonderful book titled, Reluctant Donor. Suzanne donated her Kidney to her Sister 15 years ago. She is the only sibling with healthy kidneys. This is an eye-opening episode that sheds light on what Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) a do to a family. Suzanne also shares how her strong Irish family history has helped her along the way. Suzanne’s Book, Reluctant Donor is available on Amazon https://www.ama...
Episode 15: Payal Shah, Pharm D.
April 03, 2020 17:50 - 34 minutes - 47.7 MBWelcome back! In today’s episode, Kent speaks with Payal Shah. She is a Medical Science Liaison and a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm D). Payal is 22 years Post Kidney Transplant and works for a Biopharmaceutical company that researches rare diseases, including Chronic Kidney Disease. We learn about Payal’s journey and she discusses with Kent about what is being done now to help Kidney Patients. There is so much shared on this episode. Kent feels this is the most important episode he has been in...
Episode 14: Hope for Jonathan-Give the Gift of Life
April 01, 2020 10:30 - 35 minutes - 48.6 MBWelcome back! In today’s episode, Kent speaks with Jonathan Traylor. He is a Husband and Father of two. Jonathan shares how his Kidney journey started and where he is today. One thing is clear; Jonathan is a fighter and is highly motivated to find a Kidney Donor. Are YOU the one? To Follow Jonathan’s Kidney Journey at https://www.facebook.com/donateakidney2020 If you would like to begin the Screening Process to become a Kidney Donor for Jonathan, go to http://www.livingdonor-methodistSA....
Episode 13: Amanda De Leon – A Story of Family, Faith and Blessings
March 31, 2020 05:10 - 34 minutes - 47.8 MBWelcome back! In this episode, Kent welcomes Amanda DeLeon to the Podcast. Amanda is the CEO and President of Kidney Solutions. Amanda shares a powerful story about her dear Father. Amanda donated her Kidney to her Father, 3 years ago. There is more to this story. Amanda shares her the journey that her Father and her Family are on at the moment. Have questions for Kent? You can contact him at [email protected] For more information on Kidney Solutions, visit them at www.ki...
Episode 12: All about the COVID-19/Coronavirus
March 09, 2020 19:22 - 21 minutes - 29.5 MBWelcome back! In this week’s episode, Kent talks about the COVID-19/Coronavirus. He shares information about the virus itself, how it’s transmitted, how to protect yourself against infection and what to do if you suspect you have been infected. This is one episode that you do not want to miss!! Helpful Links: https://www.cdc.gov/ https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/downloads/COVID19-symptoms.pdf Have questions for Kent? You can contact him at [email protected] ...
Episode 11: National Kidney Month & 6 Tips to Help Manage Your Blood Pressure
March 05, 2020 19:47 - 17 minutes - 23.8 MBWelcome back! In this week’s episode, Kent shares about his weekend with Kip, his Brother. Kip is also Kent’s Kidney Donor! Kent also shares information about National Kidney Month. He also shares 6 tips on how to help manage your Blood Pressure. Producer’s Note: There were some signal issues while recording, some of the audio for a couple of moments. Feel free to reach out to Kent at his email, below. Thanks! Have questions for Kent? You can contact him at kent.bressler@kidneysolutions....
Episode 10: Cadaver Kidney vs Deceased Donor & Jason’s Kidney Journey Part 2
February 12, 2020 11:00 - 25 minutes - 35.6 MBWelcome back! In this week’s episode, Kent shares an experience he had while giving a presentation on Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis FSGS and Kidney Donation. Even though he was the person giving the presentation, he learned a very important lesson that day. Why does Kent only refer to those who have passed away and their loved ones have decided to have the organs donated to those in need, as Deceased Donors? Kent shares in this episode. Jason Nunez joins the second half of the episode...
Episode 9: James Myers – 2019 Richard J. Salick Award Winner
January 29, 2020 11:00 - 38 minutes - 52.3 MBWelcome back! In this week’s episode, Kent interviews his good friend, James Myers. Uncle Jim received the Richard J. Salick award winner. He was awarded this great honor in 2019. This prestigious award is presented an individual who embodies the spirit of NKF’s dear friend, Rich Salick, a former pro surfer who underwent three kidney transplants, faced cancer, but still put the needs of other kidney patients ahead of his own. After being on Dialysis for 4 years, Jim received his Kidney Tra...
Episode 8: Jason’s Kidney Journey
January 15, 2020 19:35 - 35 minutes - 48.4 MBWelcome back! In this week’s episode, Kent interviews his Podcast Producer, Jason Nunez. He is receiving a Kidney Transplant on January 16th, 2020 in San Antonio, TX. Jason shares his journey to Kidney Transplant. To follow Jason through his Transplant and Recovery, go to “Jason’s Kidney Journey” on Facebook. Have questions for Kent? You can contact him at [email protected] For more information on Kidney Solutions, visit them at http://kidneysolutions.org/ Host: Ken...
Episode 7: HR5534 - Comprehensive Immunosuppressive Drug Coverage for Kidney Transplant Patients Act of 2019.
January 10, 2020 02:00 - 14 minutes - 19.4 MBWelcome back! In this week’s episode, Kent talks about HR5534 - Comprehensive Immunosuppressive Drug Coverage for Kidney Transplant Patients Act of 2019. www.congress.gov --> Use this to find out who your representative so you can email them. Have questions for Kent? You can contact him at [email protected] For more information on Kidney Solutions, visit them at http://kidneysolutions.org/ Host: Kent Bressler Producer: Jason Nunez
Episode 6: You are your best Advocate
January 02, 2020 23:38 - 16 minutes - 22.4 MBWelcome back! Kent shares more of his Transplant story. He also gives some helpful tips when you are advocating for yourself. Kent also talks about one of his friends and fellow Kidney Transplant Recipient, James Myers. Have questions for Kent? You can contact him at [email protected] For more information on Kidney Solutions, visit them at http://kidneysolutions.org/ Host: Kent Bressler Producer: Jason Nunez
Episode 5: What About Gout?
December 20, 2019 00:29 - 21 minutes - 30.1 MBWelcome back! Kent shares his insight about Gout. What is it? What medication is used to treat it? What’s Pseudo Gout? Kent also gives an update on an 11 year old who received a Kidney Transplant recently. Have questions for Kent? You can contact him at [email protected] For more information on Kidney Solutions, visit them at http://kidneysolutions.org/ Host: Kent Bressler Producer: Jason Nunez
Episode 4: The medication adjustment rollercoaster
November 20, 2019 20:56 - 17 minutes - 24.7 MBWelcome back! Kent shares more about his transplant journey and what he calls a medication adjustment rollercoaster. He also sends a heartfelt message to a very good friend of his. Have questions for Kent? You can contact him at [email protected] For more information on Kidney Solutions, visit them at http://kidneysolutions.org/
Episode 3: Let's talk about Immunosuppressive Medication
November 13, 2019 11:00 - 24 minutes - 33.3 MBWelcome back! Kent speaks about immunosuppressive medications. Why are they important Post-Transplant? What are these medications used for? What are the risks if these medications are NOT taken, Post-Transplant? Kent also gives some great advice for those who are in need of a Kidney Transplant, in regards to interacting with others. Have questions for Kent? You can contact him at [email protected] For more information on Kidney Solutions, visit them at http://kidneys...
Episode 2: Kent continues to share his journey
November 06, 2019 11:00 - 22 minutes - 31.1 MBWelcome back! In Episode 2, Kent introduces us to Kidney Solutions; which is a Non-profit Organization that helps those in need of a Kidney Donor, find a Living Kidney Donor. He also continues to share his Kidney Transplant Journey. Kent also starts two new segments – The Topic of the Day and Kent’s Friends. Have questions for Kent? You can contact him at [email protected] For more information on Kidney Solutions, visit them at http://kidneysolutions.org/ To see Jason’s...
Episode 1: Getting to Know Kent
October 26, 2019 05:21 - 24 minutes - 34.2 MBKent Bressler is a Kidney Transplant recipient. In this first episode, we get to know Kent and part of his Transplant journey. You can get ahold of Kent at [email protected] Kent’s Kidney Stories is brought to you by Kidney Solutions: A Network of Transplant Experience