The Journey Continues

Chelsie Tamms knew from a young age that kidney disease would be part of her story. As her career as a graphic designer flourished, it also became part of her passion.

To learn more about Chelsie and the Cool Beans project, visit https://www.letteringworks.com/coolbeans

For more information about Polycystic Kidney Disease, visit https://pkdcure.org/

Aaron and Tonya Rhoden’s love story is straight out of a Hallmark movie. They were engaged on a mountain in Hawaii and married the very next day. When Aaron was told he needed a kidney transplant, the couple embarked on their hardest climb yet.

Kimberly Gosell has been through more than her fair share of health scares: lupus, kidney failure, three transplants and now brain cancer.  She shares how she handles the continued fight for her life.

Illinois State Senator Christopher Belt shares the shocking way he discovered his kidney disease and how his diagnosis and kidney transplant affect the way he serves the people of Illinois. 

Dr. Tipu Puri, a kidney specialist at UChicago Medicine explains who is at-risk for developing kidney disease, and when, where, and why you should have your kidneys checked.

Jody Wilkey donated a portion of her liver in 2019. When she heard Renee Sample needed a kidney, she didn’t hesitate to volunteer to donate again. But one phone call took them back to square one.

Antonia Jordan and Maranda Proce couldn’t be more different but they now call one another “my closest friend.” Their lives intersected when Antonia’s nephew Chance the Rapper tweeted about his aunt’s need for a kidney donor.  

As the first female, black transplant surgeon in the U.S., Dr. Velma Scantlebury is no stranger to overcoming challenges. She shares her journey from little girl in Barbados to author and world-renowned physician, and what's next for her now that she's retired.

Dawn Williamson is the first smiling face folks see when they step into Gift of Hope's offices. With her calming presence and bright smile, visitors might never guess that she too is waiting for a life-saving transplant. She chats with Monica about staying positive while she waits. 

Anna Shabelman and her uncle Dave have always been close but their special bond grew even stronger when as an adolescent, Anna was diagnosed with kidney disease.