April 4, 2025 - Hi, I'm Kelly McGee. I’m a mother, a kidney patient, and a passionate advocate for those affected by kidney disease. My story is one of resilience, strength, and an unwavering belief in the power of community support. If my journey can shed light on the realities of kidney disease and inspire others to speak up, then sharing it is worth every moment.

In 2016, my life changed forever. I was diagnosed with End-Stage Renal Failure (ESRF), with a GFR of just 4. It was a devastating shock. I went from being an independent, thriving single mom raising three beautiful daughters to someone who could no longer care for herself. The fatigue was unlike anything I had ever known—debilitating, overwhelming, and relentless. My body had betrayed me, and I couldn’t keep up with the demands of daily life, let alone continue my career as a Registered Nurse.

For the next seven years, I fought a silent battle. I couldn’t work and struggled to maintain any sense of normalcy. My daughters—who once relied on me for guidance and care—had to step into roles they were never prepared for. This disease didn’t just change my life; it reshaped theirs. The woman who had once been the provider, the rock, the caretaker, was now dependent on her children. And none of us were prepared for that.

But it wasn’t just the physical toll that was devastating—it was the emotional, financial, and mental burden that threatened to break me. I went from financial stability to not being able to pay my bills. I struggled to afford endless medical expenses, including the mounting out-of-pocket costs of ESRF treatment. My savings disappeared. My retirement now offers a meager $16 a month. I felt like I was starting over—with nothing.

In July 2022, a beacon of hope arrived: an organ transplant. I received a life-changing kidney, and for a brief moment, the world felt full of promise again. But the battle wasn’t over. Even with my new kidney, I now live with the constant fear of rejection. Each day brings new challenges. And while I carry on with faith and a smile, the cost of life-sustaining anti-rejection medications looms large. One day at a time—that’s my mantra.

Through it all, I refuse to let this disease define me. Yes, life isn’t fair. And yes, kidney disease is one of the most misunderstood and overlooked conditions. But together—as a community—we can do better. For people like me. For people like us, the “kidney warriors.”

I’ve seen firsthand the struggles of those who suffer silently. Most people have no idea what it truly feels like to live with kidney failure—to constantly battle fatigue, pain, and the emotional weight that comes with it. The storm of kidney disease can be just as damaging as the disease itself.

That’s why I’ve dedicated my life to advocating for kidney patients. I now work as a Kidney Navigator, helping others navigate the complex world of dialysis, transplants, and life with kidney disease. I’m not just a nurse—I’m a patient, a survivor, and one of the biggest kidney advocates you’ll ever meet. No chronic illness patient—and no kidney patient—should ever have to feel like a burden.

I’m incredibly proud to be part of the American Association of Kidney Patients (AAKP) Ambassador Program. Through this role, I share my experiences, offer guidance, and advocate for policy changes to improve the lives of kidney patients across the nation. AAKP’s mission is close to my heart. It ensures our voices are heard in Washington and that our lived experiences shape the policies that impact our lives. As an Ambassador, I represent patients, share our stories, and help push for better care, better treatments, and better outcomes.

Kidney disease does not define us. What defines us is the strength, resilience, and love we share with our families, communities, and fellow kidney warriors. We are stronger together.

If I can be a voice for kidney patients and advocates, I will. And if there’s one thing I know for sure—it’s that we can make a difference, one story at a time.

I am Kelly McGee—kidney patient, nephrology nurse, and advocate for all kidney warriors. And together, we will make sure kidney disease is never overlooked again.

Kelly’s Advocacy in Legislation and Policy Change: 
In addition to her personal health journey, Kelly has made significant strides in shaping healthcare policy through her involvement with the American Association of Kidney Patients (AAKP). As a passionate advocate for kidney patients, she has worked closely with the AAKP to influence legislative and policy changes aimed at improving the quality of hospital care and expanding support for individuals living with kidney disease. Her contributions to both MHP and AAKP stand as a testament to her unwavering commitment to driving meaningful change within the healthcare system.