Just weeks before life as we knew it transformed, 35-year-old Jenna Taylor, a mother of four, was stepping back into her routine after receiving an incredible gift—a new kidney. Not even a global pandemic could dampen her spirits as she embraced each moment.
Jenna’s health journey began at 16 when she was diagnosed with lupus. After a rigorous six-month treatment, she returned to her everyday life, free from the shadow of her illness. However, that shadow reappeared fourteen years later while she was expecting her fourth child, prompting her to notice unusual swelling in her legs.
Fast forward a few years, and Jenna found herself frequently visiting the hospital, enduring extended periods of feeling well, but ultimately facing the reality of end-stage renal disease (ESRD). This diagnosis meant that she would need to start dialysis—a treatment that replicates the function of failing kidneys—to survive.
Initially, Jenna began with in-center hemodialysis. However, thanks to the support from her nurses at Fresenius Kidney Care, she transitioned to peritoneal dialysis (PD). This method utilizes blood vessels in the peritoneum—the lining of the abdomen—to filter waste from the blood. PD was an ideal option for Jenna for various reasons; it is generally less harsh on the body and, most crucially, allowed her to manage her treatments at home while staying in close contact with her healthcare team, including nurses, nephrologists, social workers, and dietitians.
PD transformed Jenna’s life, enabling her to be present with her kids. The process was non-intrusive, the machine operated quietly, and fortunately, her children were sound sleepers. In the rare instance of a nighttime emergency, she had the flexibility to disconnect from the machine temporarily. The portability of PD also allowed Jenna to travel, including a memorable week at the beach and a special trip to New York City for her daughter’s 10th birthday at the American Girl doll store.
Shortly after beginning PD, Jenna started noticing improvements in her health. While she still faced challenges in the mornings and couldn’t achieve her previous fitness levels, she managed to keep up with her children, whom she had been homeschooling. This quality time became a cherished gift that she learned to appreciate deeply.
Like many mothers and caregivers worldwide, Jenna was motivated by a desire to be there for her children—both in their present and future. Her nurses emphasized that the ultimate goal was to secure a kidney transplant. However, the decision to accept one was far from simple.
Jenna registered on two kidney exchange lists—one in her home state of California and another in Texas, where a friend resided. Although she received calls indicating that kidneys were available, she declined them. The truth was, she wasn’t ready. Accepting a kidney came with a mix of fear and, paradoxically, a glimmer of hope.
Kidneys can be obtained from deceased donors or through living donations from friends. Asking a loved one to part with a kidney is no small request, as it involves significant considerations for both the donor and the recipient.
Jenna was overwhelmed by the support she received throughout her illness—from her husband to her friends and family, who stepped in to help when she couldn’t. The ultimate act of love came when friends and family offered to check if they were a match for kidney donation.
After a lengthy process, Jenna discovered that one of her friends was a match, but not for her. Instead, her friend was linked with another individual’s friend, who turned out to be a match for Jenna. Their connection blossomed into a life-changing opportunity.
Jenna had been advised that if she felt good on PD, she would be astounded by how much better she would feel post-transplant. That prediction proved accurate. After the transplant, her energy surged back to its former levels. She could lead homeschool classes for her children and resume all the workouts she had missed during dialysis. Most delightfully, she was back to preparing breakfast for her family every morning.
Balancing motherhood and health can feel overwhelming. Prioritizing personal well-being while instinctively focusing on your children involves navigating a complex emotional landscape. With a positive mindset, faith, and a solid support system to lift her during challenging times, Jenna achieved this and more.
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- How to cope with kidney failure as a mother
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Summary:
Jenna Taylor’s incredible journey through kidney failure and her triumphant return to health after a successful transplant showcases the power of resilience, support, and the importance of prioritizing personal well-being while navigating motherhood.
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