Meet Nicole: The Hospital Is Her Second Home

My name is Nicole and I was born with a chronic illness called Chronic Kidney Disease. I was born at 27wks weighing only 1.5lbs. Since I was born so early my kidneys were too small to function. I went through several surgeries and dialysis before I was even 5yrs old. I got my kidney transplant on 6/8/98(YAY!) My life is definitely out of the ordinary. I take around 10 pills twice a day to keep me alive. I see several doctors year round to make sure I stay "stable". The hospital is basically my second home. 20yrs later I'm happy to say I still have my kidney. Most transplants only last 5-10yrs so thats a HUGE accomplishment alone! I've had a few "hiccups" along the way,but for the most part it's worth it for a second chance at life.

I've ALWAYS called myself a "Beautiful Disaster" as long as I can remember. Even though I have Chronic Kidney Disease I've NEVER let it stop me. I'm not even sure "quit" or "can't" is in my vocabulary. 

A Beautiful Disaster. It's been tough but I'm tougher.

What happened for you to turn it around?

I've never been the type to want sympathy for my story. Honestly I could of given up a long time ago. I suffer from depression as well and for awhile I wondered "Is this all life has to offer?" "What more can I do to feel valuable?" Now I embrace my incurable disease and raise awareness.

If I never got a kidney transplant I probably wouldn't be here to see my beautiful sister chase her dreams, watch my gorgeous nieces grow up, and I would of never met my amazing and supportive husband.I also wouldn't be chasing my dreams as a Kidney Advocate and educating people on Kidney Disease.

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/nicole.keplinger

Instagram - beautifuldisaster2393

Twitter - https://twitter.com/NicoleKeplinger

Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/user/nicolekeplinger19