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 experienced 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. Struggling to be ‘normal’ made me juggle with noncompliance. 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 for nearly 10 years, and volunteer. 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 hope and reminds us that dialysis is a chronic illness or (acute) not 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.

Horrified, I learned that my transplant was failing after a decade of renewed health. The news shattered me, attributing the decline in my health. Despite the setback, I juggled two jobs and a passion for hairstyling while battling on dialysis for the past 8 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 are 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 DPC citizen and a year as a patient ambassador, I was motivated to apply for a role on the board of directors. Being elected onto the board of directors is an honor and privilege. Inspired by each board member story; I vow to serve the best interests of patients across the country. My goal is to be a welcoming advocate and aide 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 Dialysis Patient Citizens 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!