I surrounded myself with positive and supportive people.

Hi, my name is Eunji (Sarah) You. I was diagnosed with IgA Nephropathy, a chronic kidney disease, at the age of 21. I faced many challenges during my treatment journey, including the side effects of steroids, which led to Cushing syndrome - caused me to experience weight gain, skin changes, low self-esteem, shame, anxiety, depression, and isolation. Despite the difficulties I faced, I surrounded myself with positive and supportive people, including family, friends, and knowledgeable physicians to manage and slow the progression of the disease.

I have been actively involved in self-care by keeping track of nutrition, lab results, and asking questions to understand the disease better. This led me to pursue a degree in biology and a master's degree in immunology, with a goal of attending medical school to become a physician who can empathize with patients and make a positive impact on their lives.

While I have faced significant challenges due to diagnosis, it also maintained a positive outlook and found ways to stay motivated and inspired. In my free time, I enjoy cooking, learning new languages, and spending time with loved ones.