DAVID - HIGHLAND PARK, NJ
Fact: chronic kidney disease (CKD) can be hard.
Also fact: talking to your doctor can really help.
If you are one of the estimated 39 million Americans living with CKD, you’re not alone. CKD is known as a “silent disease” because people don’t always experience symptoms in its early stages. As it progresses, patients face an increased risk of developing other potentially serious conditions that can make it more difficult to manage the disease. What may make it easier is having an open, honest conversation with your doctor.
in finding friends
[who] see past
‘CKD Bridget’
and just see who
I am on the inside
-BRIDGET CKD PATIENT SINCE 1999
Fact: every patient has a story.
Also fact: they’ll all inspire you.
DAVID – HIGHLAND PARK, NJ
David takes pride in being a voice for his fellow CKD warriors and a rock for his two children. In his story, he reflects on the importance of frequent conversations with his health team, mental resilience, and a relentlessly positive attitude as tools that help him manage CKD and anemia.
CRYSTAL – ATLANTA, GA
CKD warrior and devoted mother Crystal shares how important it is to make every moment count. Watch to learn more about her journey with CKD, anemia, hyperkalemia, and the obstacles of life she’s had to overcome.
BRIDGET – SAN DIEGO, CA
One of Bridget’s most remarkable qualities is her dedication to others. Read her story and get inspired by her determination to put others first, despite everything she’s endured.
JAMES – CINCINNATI, OH
When diagnosed, James claimed he would “science the heck” out of CKD. Read how he inspires other warriors with his mission to research, ask questions and never stop learning about his conditions.
Fact: CKD puts you at risk for other potentially serious conditions.
Also fact: there are different ways to help manage them.
Anemia
Anemia is a condition in which the body doesn't have enough red blood cells. These cells contain hemoglobin (Hb), which carries oxygen throughout your body. When your body is deprived of oxygen, it can leave you feeling drained or exhausted, both physically and mentally. CKD increases the chances of developing anemia because the kidneys struggle to produce an important hormone for red blood cell production. If left untreated, anemia of CKD may lead to hospitalization and could even be fatal. Talk with your doctor about your risks and the steps you can take to regain your energy.
“You might feel like you went
SWIMMING IN
THE OCEAN.
In the hot sun. All day. And
that’s how you START
your day.”
Hyperkalemia
Hyperkalemia is when the blood has higher than normal potassium levels, which may cause muscle weakness, numbness or tingling, or irregular heartbeat. CKD patients face an elevated risk for hyperkalemia because their kidneys can't remove excess potassium in their blood. As many foods contain potassium, diet plays a critical role. A conversation with your doctor may help you discover how to manage your potassium levels so you can start to feel more in control.
“I have to be
VERY CAREFUL
with what I EAT, and plan my entire day.”
Fact: you should be confident walking into your next appointment.
Also fact: you can get there with the right talking points.
This doctor discussion guide will help guide the conversation with your doctor when you’re ready to start it. Because it’s never easy to talk about chronic diseases, but it’s always important.
Unfiltered words from CKD warriors
I can change the world. I can change people's lives by talking about [CKD].
[Managing my CKD] is still hard, but that doesn’t mean I can’t do it.
I love my body and all it does for me. My body is strong. I am resilient. I am a warrior.
My kids expect daddy to be a superhero...I’m going to be who they need me to be.
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Thank you