My Nonprofit Reviews

I was diagnosed with kidney disease in 2015 during my sophomore year of High School. After I was given my diagnosis, I was bombarded with terms like “IgA nephropathy”, “creatinine”, and “glomerular filtration rate”. I looked to my parents for clarity, but they looked just as confused as I was. I didn’t know anything about kidney disease let alone what it meant to have it. I was feeling really overwhelmed and confused, not sure where to look to educate myself. However, that same year, I learned about a volunteer opportunity through my High School with Renal Support Network (RSN). The opportunity was to assist the organization with their Renal Teen Prom that took place every year. This prom gives teens with kidney disease an opportunity to experience their own prom night while also meeting new friends who are also experiencing kidney disease! I jumped at the opportunity to volunteer. That night I learned about the importance of support and friendship and became less afraid of my disease as I realized that I am not alone. That night I even found out that one of my fellow classmates had kidney disease and we have been a part of each other’s support system ever since. RSN’s programs continue to help and inspire me today as I learn from fellow people living with kidney disease and their journey’s. If you are feeling overwhelmed, scared, or confused I encourage you to join in on one of RSN’s many virtual support programs. Even if it's just once! A little friendship and hope can go a long way!