Living with FSGS: A Young Woman's Journey

Strategic Insights -

Jennifer, a 25-year-old woman from Minneapolis, was diagnosed with albuminuria, or protein in her urine, at the age of 22. A series of tests led to a diagnosis of Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), a incurable disease that can recur even after transplantation. Within six months, Jennifer's condition worsened, and she was forced to undergo dialysis and later kidney transplantation. However, the FSGS returned just three days after the transplant, leaving Jennifer devastated.

Key Takeaways:

  • Jennifer was diagnosed with FSGS at the age of 22, which is a relatively young age for a kidney disease diagnosis.
  • Within six months of diagnosis, Jennifer's kidneys failed, and she was forced to undergo in-center hemodialysis.
  • Jennifer received a kidney transplant, but the FSGS returned just three days after the surgery.
  • Despite the challenges, Jennifer made the best of her situation and finished her Master's degree and got married.
  • Jennifer has developed a close-knit community with other dialysis patients, who have become like a second family to her.
  • The return of the FSGS has forced Jennifer to adapt to a new rhythm and learn to live with the disease.

Statistics:

  • 75% of people diagnosed with FSGS will experience kidney failure within five years of diagnosis (Source: National Kidney Foundation).
  • Approximately 10,000 people in the United States undergo kidney transplantation each year (Source: United Network for Organ Sharing).
  • 2,100 people in the United States die each year waiting for a kidney transplant (Source: United Network for Organ Sharing).
  • FSGS is the most common cause of kidney failure in people under the age of 40 (Source: National Kidney Foundation).

Sources:

  • National Kidney Foundation. (Jan 2020). Understanding FSGS.
  • United Network for Organ Sharing. (2020). Kidney Transplantation.
  • United Network for Organ Sharing. (2020). Waiting List Statistics.