When nurse and mom Linda Miller learned her PKD had advanced to kidney failure, her daughter's high school best friend Joel Shoemaker didn't hesitate to be her donor. The two have always shared a special bond and their friendship and love for one another is infectious! Visit Joel's website at itsjoelshoemaker.com or follow him on social media: Instagram @magicianactor Facebook @Joel Shoemaker ..read more

Imagine receiving a life-changing call from a friend—a call that offers the promise of renewed health. Join us as we explore the incredible journey of Monica Fox, a survivor of kidney disease and recipient of a life-saving transplant whose battle embodies the profound essence of friendship and resilience. In late 2013, Monica's life took a dramatic turn when she fell ill at work, eventually leading to kidney failure and a coma. Listen as Monica shares her remarkable story, from the depths of illness to the triumph of receiving a directed deceased donor transplant---a life-saving gift from her ..read more

Tony and Tracey Gonzalez’s love story started as a classic opposite attract romance. Now 25 years and a kidney transplant later, they’re falling in love in new, deeper ways ..read more

Janet Hasson, LCSW is used to helping her clients navigate life’s challenges. When her young son was diagnosed with a rare kidney disease, she found herself in need of support and created a community of fellow kidney parents. Now she advocates for funding, research and more for kidney patients across the nation ..read more

In her role at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois, as well as in her own personal health journey, Shelley Turk has learned the importance of the saying, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” Her commitment to whole person and whole community health is shifting the focus from treatment to prevention with increased education, access, and early detection.   This episode is sponsored by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois. Learn more at bcbsil.com ..read more

John Czechowicz is a self-described professional dialysis patient. He and his wife Sara are an unstoppable team, loving and supporting one another through 27 years of marriage, parenting their son, and finding the right dialysis treatment to fit their lifestyle.   This episode is sponsored by Fresenius Kidney Care. Learn more at https://www.freseniuskidneycare.com ..read more

Getting listed for a transplant isn't as simple as making a phone call to add your name. The process and be long and confusing.  Transplant Coordinator Amanda Michaud helps her patients navigate the journey, every step of the way.    This episode is sponsored by NANI - Nephrology Associates of Northern Illinois and Indiana. Learn more at nephdocs.com ..read more

When someone loses their Medicaid coverage, they must apply for “redetermination.” Nancy Wohlhart from Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois explains how to regain coverage to ensure everyone receives the quality medical care they deserve.   Learn more about Medicaid access at Medicaid.gov This episode is sponsored by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois. Learn more at bcbsil.com ..read more

Uncontrolled diabetes is the leading cause of chronic kidney disease and minority communities are especially affected. This special live episode features Dr. Ngozi Ezike from Mt. Sinai Hospital and Tonita Cheatham from Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois in a frank discussion about diabetes and prevention ..read more

If you’re eligible for Medicare, open enrollment begins October 15. Jamie Mollin from Blue Cross Blue Shield has advice on how to prepare so you choose the right plan to fit your needs.     This episode is sponsored by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois. For more information about Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois, visit bcbsil.com.   For assistance choosing a Medicare plan through Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois, shop online at bcbsil.com/medicare or call 1-877-213-1821.   Blue Door Neighborhood Centers provide access to resources which can include healthcare navigatio ..read more