SHAD IRELAND FOUNDATION Helping patients to pursue thier own finish line.
Home About Meet Shad Events Inspiration Programs Donate ironshad Contact
Inspiration
Home | Inspiration | Grants Awarded
Back to USA Map

MISSOURI - Norma
 
Norma's Story
Norma received a one year gym membership from the foundation.

I have hereditary FSGS.  My father did dialysis in 1967 and received a kidney from my grandmother that same year. My uncle died in 1964 of kidney failure without receiving any treatment. My brother has had his transplant for 11 years.  I did dialysis for about six months before receiving a kidney from my cousin, John, in 1998.  The transplant lasted eight wonderful years before it failed from chronic pyelonephritis. I returned to dialysis in June 2006, and I am currently doing daily home dialysis using the NxStage system since October 2006. I had gained about 150 pounds following the transplant and prednisone regimen which really limited me with my activities with my family.  Over the past year and a half, I have lost 110 pounds, and I am working toward losing 70 more to meet my goal.  Last year, my son started experiencing symptoms of early kidney disease. I would like to promote health and an active lifestyle for him as well.  We have a wonderful Activity and Recreation Center that has exercise equipment, an indoor running track, a lap pool and a swimming pool and many fitness classes that would help me out a lot.  Thank you for your consideration.

top of page