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Despite the fact that Shelley has been “sick” most of her life, she has a remarkable positive attitude in dealing with kidney disease. It was in her early 20’s, when Shelley caught a virus that damaged her kidneys. Initially doctors thought Shelley’s kidneys may never fail completely, but about 10 years later her kidneys function declined and she began peritoneal dialysis (PD). Shelley recalled: it was a challenging time, as she balanced her daily treatments as well as raising three young children.

In 2003, Shelley was fortunate to receive a kidney transplant, but it failed three years ago.  With her children now older and independent, Shelley opted for hemodialysis at the local dialysis unit.

“My experience this time on dialysis is much different,” said Shelley. When my children were smaller, PD worked, but I feel stronger this time on hemodialysis. The drawback according to Shelley is the time on the machine – time that she could be doing so many more things. “I do pretty well on dialysis, but four hours on the machine can be torturous, especially because I like to keep moving.”

Even though kidney disease consumes so much of her life, Shelley believes that the she has probably lived a richer life than most, because she knows just how fragile life is. According to Shelley, one of the biggest blessings and challenges for those on dialysis is the relationships you develop at the dialysis unit. “It can be hard. You get attached to those around you, and the loss, when someone passes can be really difficult. I am grateful for every day.”

Shelley is proud to be the 2018 Perth-Smiths Falls Walk Ambassador and attend her first Kidney Walk. “I was really honoured to be asked to be the Ambassador this year, by the nurse manager in my unit. I think it’s important to take part to help all those living with the disease, and support research.”

To those individuals newly diagnosed with kidney failure, Shelley offers this advice: Knowledge makes the fear go away. Look to your medical team for support. My lifeline was the nurses in my program. They talked to me, informed me, let me cry when I needed and reassured me. Look to your family and friends for support, just talking to others can help.

Register to join your Kidney Walk now www.kidneywalk.ca