NEPHRO BATTLE BUDDIES

 Q -  Can you provide a little snapshot of the Warrior in you? Family, career, hobbies...etc.  Help us get  to know you." 

  A - CC: "Hi, my name is Cortney, and I became a battle buddy the day my husband was diagnosed with ESRD, in October 2024. I work in management for UPS, but also now co-run Nephro Warriors, mostly the Battle Buddies portion of that. My family is my strength and I really enjoy letting my creative side out, in all the things I do."

  Q - When did your journey as a care partner officially begin, and what made you decide to take on this essential role for your loved one?

  A - CC: "My journey began when my husband was diagnosed ESRD, and I wasn't excited about how things were done in center, so when the opportunity was presented that we could do HHD and make it our own, I was all about it. I wasn't happy with the way being in center had changed the quality of life for not only my husband but myself included." 

  Q - What is the single most challenging aspect of your day-to-day life as a care partner, and how have you adapted or found a way to manage it?

  A - CC: "The most challenging part I feel is finding more time in a day to do everything, just finding that balance. Something I'm still working on.." 

  Q - Who or what helps you stay resilient and focused when the journey gets particularly difficult? (e.g., A personal ritual, a support group, faith, or humor).

A - CC: "  I have a love for learning, and I find myself seeking out others or information so that I have a better understanding. I did join a support group, and I enjoy being able to help and educate others on their journey, as this isn't always an easy road. 

  Q - What is one piece of knowledge about kidney disease or caregiving that you wish you knew earlier, and what advice would you give to someone who is just starting as a care partner?

A - CC: "    I wish that when we started this journey that we had someone or something like battle buddies, who could lay out all the options for care, and who we could ask the questions. I didn't know what those questions were when we started, and now that we are here, I feel like that's where my passion and drive can come in to help others to navigate the unknown. My advice would be, don't be afraid to speak up, especially for your warrior, if it doesn't feel right, or if it seems off, say something.  

  Q -   How do you make sure you are also taking care of your own emotional and physical well-being while being so dedicated to your loved one’s health? 

A - CC: "This is a hard thing for us who are in the role of caregiver (battle buddy) There are days, when I feel like, all I do is work, and dialysis. So, I try and find that time, to have a coffee date with a friend, or go get that pedicure, these things seem small, but it's a nice way to just help reset the mind and spirit. I also, find great joy in letting my creative side out. Decorating for each month and holiday in my home is one of my favorite things."

  Q - How do you personally measure success or a "good day" in your role as a care partner, and what is your greatest hope for your loved one's future health?

A - CC: "A good day is when we can successfully complete a treatment, with no issues. No major alarms, cannulation is good, and when we remove the needles, we don't have to mop the floor from the bleeding. IYKYK. My greatest hope for my husband's future, is that he continues to thrive during this, that he continues to keep that positive mindset, and hopefully soon, can receive a donor kidney, that also, thrives."