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...
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Episode 140: Rising Above - Dan Holmes' Journey from Navy Hero to Kidney Advocate
Kent's Kidney Stories
Join Kent Bressler in this deeply insightful episode of Kent's Kidney Stories as he welcomes Dan Holmes, a former U.S. Navy combat search and rescue operator, to discuss his remarkable journey through kidney disease. Listen in as Dan shares his experiences from the harrowing shipboard fire that led to his PTSD and subsequent diagnosis with membranous nephropathy, a rare and incurable kidney disease. Despite these challenges, Dan has become a passionate advocate for kidney disease awareness. Tune in to hear his inspiring story of resilience, advocacy, and hope! For more information on Kidney...
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Episode 139: Rewriting Medical History - The First Nutcracker Syndrome Kidney Donation
Kent's Kidney Stories
In this episode, Kent Bresler sits down with LJ Dong, a remarkable individual who shares her unique journey of overcoming Nutcracker Syndrome and becoming a kidney donor. LJ talks about surviving multiple surgeries on her spine and abdomen and how a diagnosis of Nutcracker Syndrome has changed her life. Nutcracker Syndrome is a compression of the renal vein causing, pain and potential damage to the kidney. Corrective surgery was unsuccessful. This inspiring conversation sheds light on the complexities of kidney health and the power of resilience and generosity. Stay up to date with LJ...
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Beating the Odds: Jamie's Double Heart Miracle
Kent's Kidney Stories
In this heartfelt episode, Kent Bresler sits down with Jamie Stroup, a remarkable woman who has undergone not one, but two heart transplants, and a double lung transplant. Jamie shares her incredible journey from her first transplant at the age of 16 to her recent second heart transplant in October 2023. They discuss the emotional and physical challenges she faced, the support from her family and friends, and the importance of maintaining her health and sanity through it all. Tune in to be inspired by Jamie's resilience and strength. For more information on Kidney Solutions and to join their...
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Episode 137: The New Era Act: A Game Changer for Kidney Patients
Kent's Kidney Stories
Join Kent Bressler as he delves into the New Era Act, a groundbreaking Bill aimed at improving the lives of those with rare kidney diseases. Learn about Kent's advocacy efforts on Capitol Hill, the importance of early intervention, and how you can contribute to this vital cause. Don't miss this informative and inspiring episode! For more information on Kidney Solutions and to join their supportive community, visit kidneysolutions.org. Host: Kent Bresler Producer: Jason Nunez Remember to keep breathing, and don’t miss the next amazing episodes of Kent’s Kidney Stories!
info_outlineKent 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.
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.kidneysolutions.org
Feature image captured from Newsday Article
Host: Kent Bressler
Producer: Jason Nunez