In 2011 Sharri and Lewis took off together on vacation. As they escaped the winter on a cruise down to Florida, Sharri began to feel ill. When Sharri developed severe difficulty walking, both she and Lewis realized that something was seriously wrong. Upon returning to Canada, Sharri visited her doctor and, following an unexpected diagnosis of kidney disease, began the slow decline towards total failure.   

Overwhelmed by the shocking diagnosis, Sharri and Lewis turned to the Kidney Foundation for support.  “The Foundation became a lifeline for me.” Sharri says, “I learned everything I know now from the website and by joining Kidney Connect online,” 

Through the online community she learned more about her disease and connected with others with similar experiences, especially as Sharri began dialysis. The support was invaluable to both her and Lewis, who tested early on to be a kidney donor. After two years of dialysis and preparing for the surgery, Lewis gave Sharri the gift of life. 

Sharri and Lewis were not quite ready, though, to leave the dialysis unit. When a manager from their hospital asked if they would like to participate in a support group, both Sharri and Lewis were immediately on board.

Now, the couple co-facilitate multiple peer-support group meetings in their  region. Their support and dedication has positively impacted staff, volunteers and those touched by kidney disease. 

If you are considering reaching out to peer support, both Sharri and Lewis encourage you to take the first step.  
“Give it a try! Just come and listen to other people’s stories. We’ve been through it too. We know the ups, the downs, we’ve laughed, we’ve cried, we’ve screamed, we’ve lost our patience. It’s a chance to vent and say what you want.”