I’m Alethea, and my journey is a testament to resilience and hope against seemingly unbeatable odds. At 14, my life took a drastic turn when my kidneys failed; I was diagnosed with rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis (RPGN) and had to go on dialysis. I did both peritoneal dialysis and hemodialysis. My life was forever changed for myself and family. Eventually I received my first kidney a month before my 19th birthday.

At 21, I lost my first kidney transplant. I struggled with wanting to be ‘normal’ which led to sometimes being noncompliant with my treatment plan. After losing my first kidney, I promised to share the importance of compliance and education. I’ve always been an advocate for myself; however, such a devastating loss planted the seed to help educate others. I became a patient liaison and helped children transition to adult facilities, managing a routine to keep appointments, take medicine, and live not a normal life but a life normal to them.

Graciously, my aunt offered me a kidney transplant. With this second chance, I dedicated myself to helping others as a dialysis technician and volunteer for nearly 10 years. Soon after I became a dialysis technician, I began to teach dialysis as a preceptor, learning the importance of policies and procedures. Volunteering with young patients and maintaining those relationships gives me hope and is a reminder that dialysis is a chronic illness but does not have to be a terminal one. Living with kidney disease is very possible and an adequate life is obtainable; I strive to live my life a way that demonstrates that.

After a decade of renewed health, I was horrified to learn that my transplant was failing. The news shattered me, attributing to a decline in my health. Despite the setback, I juggled two jobs and a passion for hairstyling while battling on dialysis for the past eight years. During Covid, I faced a grim prognosis, being given two years to live due to a failing heart and lungs, necessitating a multi-organ transplant. God changed that report, and it was a missed diagnosis. A renewed sense of hope emerged. Now, standing at the cusp of a life-changing surgery and being listed in Washington, D.C. for a kidney transplant, I dedicate and share time speaking with dialysis patients at different centers in the metro Detroit area, offering encouragement and a medium to aid in communication with healthcare providers. I learned that adults are often scared and confused after getting diagnosed with kidney disease and not provided much education. I advocate for them now; the same as I did for the youth.

In 2024, I was selected as a Patient Ambassador and chosen to go to Washington, D.C. and advocate for patients nationwide. The privilege of serving others alongside individuals who shared similar stories was a phenomenal experience! After years of being a Dialysis Patient Citizens’ (DPC) member and a year as a Patient Ambassador, I was motivated to apply for a role on the Board of Directors. Being elected to the Board is an honor and privilege. Inspired by each Board Member’s story, I vow to serve the best interests of patients across the country. My goal is to be a welcoming advocate and aid in improving the quality of life of patients through education and my voice. I will use my voice to carry the voices of others. Walking in the footsteps of the many who pathed the way on a road that DPC created. This opportunity to serve and represent patients through DPC strengthens me and helps me fight for myself as well. I’m grateful to offer my testimony, tenacity, and be resourceful!