I’m a 23-year-old male college student whose life has been turned around from kidney failure. I have a needle phobia, and having dialysis three times a week freaks me out every time. But I do it anyway to survive.

I have high hopes for myself, and high hopes in the medical community to find a probable treatment for Nephrotic Syndrome and FSGS other than dialysis and transplants. I’m a pre-med student who’s passionate about medicine, especially neurosurgery. I wish to become someone in the neuroscience world, whether that will be in research or as a doctor. I do my best every single day to remain hopeful with full time school and dialysis. My hopes for the next couple years are medical school acceptance, as well as a transplant.

Have confidence in yourselves to the point that you have to lie to yourself. Know that you do not deserve this and it is not your fault. Love those around you for their utmost gracious support.