Podcasts

Being an Individual: The Perspective of a Care Partner

This two-part podcast series features Dawn Bates, who shares her 16-year journey as a care partner for her husband, Jimmie. Through heartfelt stories and practical insight, Dawn discusses the emotional and logistical realities of caregiving, from navigating in-center and home dialysis to managing transplants and life on the road in their RV. She highlights the evolving role of care partners in kidney care, the importance of education, recognition, and community support, and offers guidance on setting boundaries and practicing self-care. Together, the episodes celebrate the resilience of care partners and their essential role in improving quality of life for those living with kidney disease.

30 Years of Experience, A Lifetime of Impact: Celia Chretien’s Journey in Nephrology Nursing

This two-part podcast series features Celia Chretien, Patient Advisory Council member and a seasoned nephrology nurse whose journey from aspiring medical student in India to dialysis leader in the U.S. reflects resilience, compassion, and lifelong dedication to patient care. Across both episodes, Celia shares how personal challenges, cultural influences, and mentorship shaped her career and deepened her commitment to patient-centered care. She highlights the vital role of dialysis technicians and care partners, the importance of mental health and professional boundaries, and the rewarding career opportunities within nephrology. Together, the episodes celebrate the people, purpose, and passion that drive excellence in kidney care.

From Diagnosis to Life After Transplant: A Story of Determination

In this series, Candee Denzmore opens up about the powerful and personal journey she and her husband experienced through kidney disease, dialysis, transplant, and loss. With honesty and heart, Candee walks us through the highs and lows of caregiving, treatment decisions, family dynamics, and personal recovery. Each episode offers insight, encouragement, and a reminder that behind every diagnosis is a story of resilience, advocacy, and hope. Whether you’re a patient, caregiver, or provider, this series offers meaningful perspectives to inform and inspire.

Peer to Peer Support

Barabara Briggs, long-time Patient Advisory Council member and patient advocate, talks about her experience with beginning in-center hemodialysis and her journey to two kidney transplants, one with a high-risk kidney.

Kidney patient advocate and ten-year Patient Advisory Council member, Della Major, discusses her chronic kidney disease journey, her road to kidney transplant, and her failed transplant leading back to in-center hemodialysis.

Patient care partner, John Tomko, shares his mother’s end-stage renal disease journey and his decision to be her care partner. He advocates for home dialysis and the benefits it provides, including flexibility with treatment and the freedom to travel.

For questions about these recordings, or if you’re interested in reaching out to the speakers directly, email us at Qsource-Peers@qsource.org and we will forward your contact information.

A Patient’s Journey Through ESRD

Being diagnosed with End-Stage Renal Disease can be both scary and confusing. However, with proper education and guidance the transition can be much smoother. This two-part series podcast takes you through a patient’s experience of crashing into dialysis and the journey to transplant. Download the podcast outline for more information on this series.