Becoming A Better Me

When I was diagnosed with chronic kidney disease, or CKD, I was not understanding what I should do and I think most people feel this way. Before experiencing my first kidney failure, I was eating everything insight.

After my first kidney failure, I was still eating everything in sight. Why? Because I was not told that my eating habits and lifestyle might have been a contributing factor into why I came across chronic kidney disease. I did not know that I had to put into my body positive things to get the same positive outcomes in return. I sat there in my younger years and did not think that I would be doing more harm to my body with eating the foods I eat.

I am from New Orleans, Louisiana, where the food here often comes well-seasoned. But these are contributing factors to health issues as well. Most foods can be high in sodium and cause you to retain fluid and can cause your kidneys to not flush well.

I needed to make a change

When I was between the ages of 18 and 22, I was in the rebellious stage of this disease being not that serious to me. I learned the hard way just how serious it is. Even though my mom being diagnosed with lupus as well, she ate and still eats what she wants and still is not affected by CKD today. However, every person's condition is not the same. CKD impacts each person so differently. I needed to change my diet and change it for the better.

Being diagnosed with kidney failure, I thought my life was completely over. The amount of medication I had to take both times while taking infusions had taken a big toll on my body. I ended up losing my hair, my skin being affected, retaining fluid, having really bad anxiety, and more.

Placing myself first

I started placing myself in better atmospheres and conditions. I started to go to farmers markets to get fresh veggies and fruits. I chose to place myself before anything and anybody because I needed that in order to help myself heal. I started going to the gym at least four times a week. Then my diet was a low sodium diet and it was completely amazing, with no salt. I also cut off beef and other foods that I felt as I should not be eating. I started to see better results two weeks after starting. I had more energy and time. I started doing more things and going more places and my blood work was better than ever. And my condition had completely improved to where I started to do the things that I used to think were impossible.

My biggest fear is that I would do all the education I need and all the work I need and will not be able to enjoy it because of my health condition and how it has affected me. Being diagnosed with CKD will bring you through an emotional rollercoaster. I chose to live better so I can be better. I chose myself above all things and when I did that, I have seen a big improvement.