In 1989, at the age of two, I was diagnosed with Nephrotic Syndrome.

Growing up I would relapse constantly, especially around the holidays. Immense weight gains, pain in my legs, serious edema, and a host of other symptoms have been apparent in my life. 

I have now dealt with the condition for over 20 years. I’ve taken all the mediations, including Imuran, Cyclosporine, and, the most popular of them all, Prednisone, off and on my whole life. 

So far in my life, I’ve accomplished a lot by graduating from college and doing a lot of community service, but the Nephrotic Syndrome relapses still invade my life at times. It knocks me down, but I seem to get up from it every time.

I used to think there weren’t others with the same issue, but I see I’m mistaken. I currently live in Los Angeles, and I’m looking forward to meeting people with experiences like mine and attending events that help in the fight against nephrotic disorders.