Even with the bad days, I’ve surprised myself with my strength...

Cristie's journey began in June 2020 when her routine blood work revealed that her potassium levels were dangerously high. Her doctor immediately sent her to the ER, and she was monitored every 3-6 months, making significant progress.
However, in July 2021, she lost her father during a routine operation, and her creatine levels skyrocketed. Her doctor recommended a biopsy, and she was officially diagnosed with IgAN. Eventually, she required a kidney transplant.
Today, six months post-transplant, she is doing well and is grateful for the opportunity to be a part of the Change Champion program. Cristie is passionate about raising awareness about IgAN and contributing to research, as she believes there is still much to learn about this condition. 
As Cristie puts it, “I’m just so grateful to be here. Even with the bad days, I’ve surprised myself with my strength and the ability to cope with what I’ve gone through.”