I have CKD as a result of Lupus and hypertension which was discovered when I was 15-yrs. old. Life has been great because even though I knew eventually I would have kidney failure, over the years I had plenty of time to educate myself and follow doctors orders. Patient education is so important. At 33, I started dialysis, I am now 48, been on In-Center Hemodialysis for 15 years, a survivor of open-heart surgery and just lost my lower left leg in 2008. Over-all still I have to say life is great. I am a volunteer with (DPC)Dialysis Patient Citizen- a Patient Ambassador, Peer Supporter and a patient advocate. I have one daughter and 3 wonderful grandchildren. My mother is my Hero, without her there would be no me.

Being that the Lord is the head of my life and my mom is my hero, there is not anybody that could step into those shoes.