I have been a registered nurse within the Windsor Regional Hospital Renal Program for the past three years. The most rewarding aspect of being a nurse is the realization that I make a difference in someone's life, even if for just a moment. I have had the honour of caring for some amazing people. This past year has had numerous challenges with Covid and I am someone they can talk to, when no one else can visit them.

While working with dialysis patients is my day job, kidney disease also impacts my family personally. Ten years ago, when I was pregnant with twins, I learned that both of my babies were experiencing kidney issues. Sadly, my daughter Allison passed away in utero as a result of polycystic kidneys.  My now 10-year-old daughter, Christina has already battled numerous kidney challenges in her young life.   Today she is happy and healthy, but her future kidney function does remain uncertain.

As a result of my experience with my daughters, I became aware of the wonderful work of The Kidney Foundation. When the opportunity arose professionally for me to become a renal nurse, I felt it was my calling. I am blessed to be a nurse helping care for this population as it is something that holds a special place within my heart. 

I am thrilled to volunteer with my local Kidney Foundation Chapter to improve the lives of those living with kidney disease in our community. Everything comes full circle, and I look forward to becoming even more fulfilled in my new volunteer role.