At 18 years old, my life changed forever. While on a sport exchange program in Spain, I lost my kidney function due to aHUS (an ultra rare disease)—suddenly shifting from being a competitive high jumper to navigating life on dialysis.

For the next 15 years, I lived on nocturnal home hemodialysis six nights a week. It was exhausting, isolating, and relentless—but I was never alone. Thanks to the support of The Kidney Foundation of Canada, I had access to vital resources and funding that made a meaningful difference in my life. I was able to attend a specialized camping getaway where dialysis was provided, receive support during the holidays, and eventually give back by volunteering with the Patient Support Program.

In 2017, everything changed again once a new medication was available and I received a kidney transplant from my aunt—a second chance at life that I will never take for granted.

Today, I’m raising funds to support kidney patients in the Ottawa region who are facing challenges similar to what I experienced. Access to care, community, and support can make all the difference.

As part of this effort and with the help of Alive to Strive Kidney Fitness Project, I will be training for a 5K. And for anyone who knows me—you know running is not my thing! But for kidney patients, I will gladly take on the challenge.

Your support means more than you know. Together, we can help ensure that no one has to face kidney disease alone.