All posts by She Had 3

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About She Had 3

I've been a nurse for over 35 years and was diagnosed with idiopathic nephrotic syndrome in 1994, progressing to end-stage renal disease in 2004. I've had a myriad of health issues including 3-kidney transplants, an autoimmune skin disorder, hemorrhage, and cancer. All these experiences have led me to the point of sharing my experiences with you. This is a story of faith, perseverance, experiences, and strength over the span of 29 years. I've never looked back while going through this. My journey is ongoing with my husband, doctor, friends, and family. I hope to inspire anyone going through a difficult time without hope. I was encouraged to tell my story by my Sista friend (2nd donor) and my doctor I am also an avid foodie, an honest reviewer of restaurants and products for Influenster. I also consider myself to be a people advocate, and a continuous learner.

Colleges Attended

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I have had an incredible journey attending the Community College of Philadelphia, La Salle University, Drexel University, and Eastern University! I genuinely believed I would continue my education despite the challenges of stress and anxiety. I kicked off my academic adventure by earning my ADN and General Studies degree at CCP. After passing my nursing boards, I became a registered nurse. I worked at a hospital that offered tuition reimbursement. What a win-win!

One of the highlights was taking a religion course at La Salle, taught by an inspiring priest. I absolutely loved the class and the way my instructor made everything come alive! I embarked on my BSN journey at Drexel. Then, life threw a curve ball. I went into renal failure. I bravely tackled peritoneal dialysis. I received a cadaveric kidney from a 5-year-old angel. Yet, that kidney only lasted 3 years. I faced skin disorders. I experienced a gastrointestinal bleed. My hemoglobin levels were low. The support from my wonderful coworkers, friends, and family was invaluable. My friend Moe stepped up and turned out to be a match, which was amazing!

I was open and honest with my instructor and everyone about my medical struggles. I made it clear that I didn’t want any special treatment. Our story became a meaningful chapter for many of my colleagues who witnessed our journey. There were tough moments. A ureter detached, leading to a hemorrhage. I lost the kidney, but I fought through and didn’t give up!

Dialysis became a big part of my life, with treatments every other day for ten years. But guess what? I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and earned a certification in obstetrics! My dreams didn’t stop there—I was determined to pursue my Master’s Degree in Nursing Education. After 10 years of home hemodialysis, I was ready for a new challenge. I had one wish: to be officially listed at another hospital after I graduated in June 2018. My instincts told me the new hospital was the right fit!

On February 21, 2019, I received my third kidney transplant—what a miraculous day! I thought I had reached the finish line with my education. Still, I returned for a school nurse certification because it was required. Life is absolutely wonderful now. I’m genuinely grateful to God for all my blessings. I am also grateful for the perseverance I found along the way!

Daily writing prompt
What colleges have you attended?
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An eventful Friday

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I saw a woman get hit by a car, and I pulled over with another bystander to call EMS. I went straight into triage (nurse) mode, reassuring the injured woman that help was coming. The driver was a girl in her 20s; she was not speeding and was trying to go around a truck. She got out of the car, apologized to the woman, and said, “I’m going to get in so much trouble.” I said to her, “Sis, you did the right thing; you didn’t leave the scene, and it was a mistake.” She asked if I could stay with her, and I did, with another gentleman. The look on her face was pure terror, and I told her it would be okay. The police took the report, and the ambulance arrived shortly after. I hugged her and told her not to beat herself up and to pray.

A Random Act of Kindness

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I was ordering some burgers from Five Guys, and I happened to glance at one of the employees. He was a handsome young man with rich, warm skin and a bright, radiant smile. When I noticed the fistula in his lower forearm, our eyes met and I asked him about his dialysis journey, offering support and sharing my own successful experience with kidney transplants. He mentioned that he was only listed at one hospital, so I encouraged him to consider listing at another center and provided him with information. It was a truly uplifting and heartwarming encounter.

Daily writing prompt
Write about a random act of kindness you’ve done for someone.
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What activities do you lose yourself in?

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Dailyprompt 1877

Getting into house plants has brought so much joy and fulfillment into my life. Before, I couldn’t fully indulge in this hobby because of my cat. However, after my dear Chloe passed away, I embraced the world of houseplants, and it’s been an incredibly rewarding journey. I’ve become fully immersed in their care and seeing them thrive brings me so much happiness. I guess you could say I’ve become a plant momma, and it’s truly wonderful. 😊

A risk that I do not regret.

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No regrets

After 31 years of service, the hospital I worked at closed down. Despite my qualifications, the transition to a new hospital proved challenging, as it became evident that they were not keen on hiring older employees. Throughout three separate interviews, I did not feel valued or welcomed. During the final interview, I was even asked about my current salary, a question that caught me off guard despite its standard nature. Moreover, the interviewer expressed consideration for offering a wage $10 lower than my current earnings and inquired about my union membership.

In response, I graciously declined the offer and made it clear that I would share my experience with others. Subsequently, I discovered that the hospital had chosen to hire younger nurses. Despite the initial disappointment, I can confidently say that I have no regrets. It was undoubtedly the best decision of my life. This experience has taught me the importance of being prepared to assertively decline opportunities that do not align with my worth and values.

What’s my dream job?

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I am fulfilling my dream as a nurse, and I am passionate about educating and supporting individuals living with kidney disease. Despite facing multiple kidney transplants and complications, I am determined to make a positive impact. Yesterday, I had the opportunity to share my personal journey at a men’s health seminar. Despite initial nerves, my words flowed, and I captivated the small audience. This experience has opened doors for me to speak at other events and organizations. My friend’s encouragement to share my story has proven to be incredibly meaningful.

“The comeback is always stronger than the set back.”

Dr. Penny

What is the one word that describes you? Warrior

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The one word that describes me is warrior. Tomorrow I will celebrate a gift from my Irish sister, Lisa Moe. She donated blood and a kidney to me on March 19, 2009. I can’t believe it’s been 15 years. We are nurses, with the same 1st name (Lisa), initials, birthdays 7 days apart, worked together in a labor, and delivery unit with wonderful people. The kidney was a success for hours and I lost it due to hemorrhage. She gave her kidney and numerous blood exchanges so that I could be better. She always told me that she was going to make me Irish. Everyone at our work spoke about this beautiful selfless act. We even celebrated the day before with a pre-kidney celebration at Alma de Cuba.

We were an example of what shouldn’t have happened. Hospital Public Relations approached us about doing a story because it was a story of love. A love for one another and for all of the people involved. The hospital staff rallied for us as a family and not as coworkers. We learned a lot about what should have happened e.g. post-care of the recipient, psychological support, and continuation of care. I had a successful 3rd kidney transplant in 2019, but I will never forget how this event affected so many people around us. People knew our story. Moe always said to me, “Always tell our story.” I have kept that promise and will continue to for the rest of my life.

Retrospectively, there was still a gift and a feeling that I will never feel at another place of employment. We are family. I love you, Moe, and I’m forever grateful to you for your gifts of love and friendship.

“Vulnerability is the birthplace of love, belonging, joy, courage, empathy, and creativity. It is the source of hope, empathy, accountability, and authenticity. If we want greater clarity in our purpose or deeper and more meaningful spiritual lives, vulnerability is the path.”

Brené Brown

Moe and Me year 15