Episode 103: Rachelle McCray - On A Journey With Alport Syndrome
Release Date: 10/26/2022
Episode 150: Exploring Abundance - Donald Griswold's Vision for Kidney Donation Awareness
Kent's Kidney Stories
Kent Bressler speaks with Donald Griswold, is a filmmaker and director of the documentary feature film, “Abundant.” This documentary explores the incredible journeys of non-directed kidney donors, diving into themes of giving, scarcity, and abundance. He believe this film aligns perfectly, "Abundant" has been rated 4.8/5 by hundreds of viewers—he is ready to share this journey with you today. To watch "Abundant," visit and consider purchasing a copy to share with kidney patients or organizations. For more information on kidney donation and support, reach out to Kent at...
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Episode 149: Danny English - A Musician's Call for a Kidney Donor
Kent's Kidney Stories
Kent Bressler sits down with Danny English, an accomplished pianist and music producer. He's looking for a living kidney donor so he can get on with his life and get off dialysis and return to living. He talks about how dialysis gets in the way and cloud his future. We ask you to take a listen, pray and see if you might not be the one to donate to Danny. Kent and Danny discuss the importance of awareness and action in the kidney community, encouraging listeners to consider the profound difference they can make by becoming living donors. If you feel inspired to help Danny reclaim his life,...
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Episode 148: Karthik Shivaprasad - Harnessing AI for Kidney Disease Awareness
Kent's Kidney Stories
Kent Bressler welcomes Karthik Shivaprasad, discusses artificial intelligence and kidney health. Karthik shares his personal connection to kidney disease, as both of his parents are affected, which has fueled his passion for raising awareness through his nonprofit, Renal Reach. Kent and Karthik delve into how AI can be leveraged to identify patterns and enhance education about chronic kidney disease. Karthik introduces Renal Reach, which focuses on spreading awareness and connecting communities through events and online initiatives. They discuss the importance of early detection and the...
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Episode 147: Are YOU The One? Charles Cranford's Journey to Find a Kidney Donor
Kent's Kidney Stories
Kent reconnects with Charles Cranford, who is seeking a living kidney donor after his kidney function began to fail. Charles shares his journey, including his past transplant experience with his wife, Amy, and the challenges he faces as he navigates the need for another transplant. Together, they emphasize the importance of community support, faith, and the proactive steps Charles is taking to spread the word about his need for a donor. Charles discusses the emotional duality of feeling helpless yet hopeful, highlighting the significance of asking for help and the role of prayer in his...
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Episode 146: Finn Israel's Journey - A Call for Hope and Kidney Donation
Kent's Kidney Stories
Kent Bressler talks with Finn Israel, a young man living with Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome. Finn shares how a surprising diagnosis led to kidney failure and the urgent need for a transplant. Through it all, Finn highlights the strength he finds in family, friends, and community support. He and Kent also talk about the challenges of kidney disease, the strict process for finding donors, and the hope that comes from living donors. Finn stays positive by enjoying activities like hiking and cooking while waiting for a match. Tap to stay up to date with Finn. If you feel inspired to become...
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Episode 145: From Rejection to Donation - Overcoming Obstacles with Project Donor
Kent's Kidney Stories
Kent Bressler talks with Josie Maier, co-director of Project Donor—a nonprofit offering free support to living organ donor candidates. Kent reflects on his journey as a living donor kidney transplant recipient and his recent triumph over cancer. Josie sheds light on key challenges in organ donation, especially how BMI restrictions can prevent otherwise willing individuals from donating. Project Donor works to shift the conversation by helping potential donors overcome reversible barriers through free weight loss programs, smoking cessation resources, and therapy. Together, Kent and Josie...
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Episode 144: Glenna Frey - The Case for Living Kidney Donation
Kent's Kidney Stories
Kent Bressler welcomes Glenna Frey, MSN, APRN-CNS. She has dedicated over 40 years to nephrology nursing, specializing in hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis, and kidney transplantation. In 2017, she donated a kidney to a stranger at the Cleveland Clinic. The following year, she co-founded (KDC), a nonprofit providing education and support for living kidney donation with her daughter, Amanda. Glenna serves as executive director of KDC and frequently presents programs on living kidney donation. She is a member of the American Nephrology Nurses Association and the National Kidney Donation...
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Episode 143: The Heart of Kidney Research - Why Your Story Matters
Kent's Kidney Stories
Kent Bressler speaks with Rachel Claudine and Dr. Sandy Gilbert from the . They explore the groundbreaking KidneyCARE Study, a pioneering patient-centered research initiative designed to gather vital data directly from individuals living with various stages of kidney disease. Rachel shares her personal journey with Lupus Nephritis, emphasizing the significance of patient stories in advancing kidney health research. Dr. Gilbert highlights the study's aim to capture real-world patient experiences, offering insights into disease progression and treatment efficacy. Discover how this innovative...
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Episode 142: Resilience and Hope - Cody's Inspiring Kidney Story
Kent's Kidney Stories
Cody Kubiak’s story is one of extraordinary resilience, faith, and hope. In this episode, we dive into his powerful journey—from childhood surgeries to receiving a kidney transplant and battling cancer. Through every trial, Cody has shown what it means to persevere and live with purpose. Hear firsthand how he turned hardship into hope, and discover why raising awareness for kidney donation is more important than ever. Dive deeper into Cody's story at kidneysquitwedont.com For more information on Kidney Solutions and to join our supportive community, visit kidneysolutions.org Host: Kent...
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Episode 141: The Power of Faith in Kidney Health
Kent's Kidney Stories
Kent Bresler shares his personal journey through kidney disease, including his experiences with a kidney transplant, dialysis, and the challenges he faced with a recent health scare. With a focus on resilience and the importance of regular medical check-ups, Kent offers insights into navigating life after a transplant and the significance of community support. Join us for an inspiring discussion that emphasizes the power of faith, advocacy, and the human spirit in overcoming life's hurdles. For more information on Kidney Solutions and to join their supportive community, visit Host: Kent...
info_outlineKent speaks with Rachelle McCray about her journey with Alport Syndrome and her experience with Renasight, a Natera product that determines if there is a genetic cause for an individual’s kidney disease or if there is an increased hereditary risk due to family history.
Rachelle McCray—Rachelle is a television host, entrepreneur, and patient advocate for chronic kidney disease. Rachelle is the founder and creator of a registered 501(c)3 non-profit that gifts comfort teddy bear kits to children and families affected by kidney disease, the MinMinBear Foundation. She brings a personal perspective to her advocacy, as she and multiple generations of her family have lived with CKD. Rachelle credits Natera’s Renasight genetic test for giving her the knowledge to make more informed decisions about her care. Her goal is for other CKD patients to have that same confidence and participation in their healthcare. Rachelle is also a paid consultant for Natera.
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.bressler@kidneysolutions.org
For more information about Kidney Solutions, visit them at www.kidneysolutions.org
Host: Kent Bressler
Producer: Jason Nunez