July 1 is a very important milestone for me and my family. It is the day I celebrate 20 years with my father’s kidney tucked safely in my abdomen. Though I sometimes feel like it has been a lifetime since the transplant, I am awed by how quickly the years have ticked by. It seems like only yesterday we learned the single kidney I was born with was failing. As a young woman, just finishing my junior year of college, it hardly seemed fair to receive such devastating news.

I often wonder if I would have changed any part of my life if given the opportunity. What would it have been like to not have kidney failure? I can honestly say that I wouldn’t change one experience in my lifetime. I won’t lie to you, it hasn’t necessarily been the easiest journey, but my kidney failure and ultimate transplant has made me the woman I am today. I have learned valuable lessons about love, devotion, strength, leadership, fear and courage that I may never have totally known otherwise. The experience of living with a chronic illness has led me down a road I would not have previously imagined for myself.

I could have, by no means, traveled this road alone. My parents instilled a great deal of confidence in me with their love and support by making me believe there was nothing I couldn’t do with a chronic illness. My friends have made the sometimes bumpy road fun and daring, while also being there when I might not feel up to par. Through it all, my healthcare professionals have helped me to be a healthier patient and played a valuable role in ensuring my success for 20 years.

I am certainly not alone on this journey. I have met thousands of patients, like you, who have shared their stories, inspired me to continue and given me hope for the future. Thank you.

As I reflect on my 20 year anniversary, I celebrate with my family and my friends who have all made it most worthwhile. They are the ones who have made this journey a great trip!

Kris Robinson
AAKP Executive Director/CEO