REACH Kidney Care

This month marks 7 years since my kidney donation. I personally remember organ donation every September with a 50 mile celebratory bike ride. Let me also answer the most common question I’m asked: “What is life like after donating a kidney?” The good news for living kidney donors is that life with one kidney is largely the same as life with two. After donation, the remaining kidney naturally compensates by increasing in size and function to handle the workload of both kidneys. Most donors experience no long-term health issues and can continue living an active, healthy life. Here are a few key points to keep in mind: - Full recovery: After surgery, most people return to their normal routines within a few weeks. I was at church the Sunday following my donation. - Minimal lifestyle changes: I visit a kidney specialist yearly (recommended), but donors can maintain a normal diet and activity level, including exercise. -Activity: Thanks to the support of the community, affectionately called the “one bean club”, I found myself hiking the Appalachian Trail as well as hiking the Grand Canyon rim to rim with my fellow pastors - both of which I’d never considered UNTIL donation. Donating a kidney is a life-changing gift that helps others without significantly affecting your own quality of life. My friend Carl gained the ability to be present at his beloved family weddings, graduations and childbirths. Considering donating a kidney or want more information?  TKF https://lnkd.in/eYHTci4y and DCI Reach https://lnkd.in/e6i7Mt2c

Earlier this month, DCI and REACH Kidney Care employees and clinical leaders from across the U.S. came together for our Annual Meeting in St. Pete Beach, Fla. We received updates about our organization, participated in group discussions, heard from experts about innovations in kidney care, handed out awards to outstanding employees and clinics and had the opportunity to listen to Patrick Riecke discuss tips for handling and recovering from burnout. We are grateful for the chance to network, connect and learn about ways to improve the patient experience. We’re back with excited energy and a renewed focus on what matters most: Our patients. Check out these photos of this year’s Annual Meeting. We’re already counting down the days until next year!