Thelma is a two-time kidney transplant recipient living with chronic kidney disease, hypertension, and type 2 diabetes. Despite experiencing symptoms at just 12 years old, it took nearly a decade for Thelma to receive a diagnosis of IgA Nephropathy (Nephrotic Syndrome) in 1993 and chronic kidney disease in 1998. Today, she is a passionate advocate for all people with kidney disease, especially African Americans and those from financially disadvantaged backgrounds. She's fighting for equal access to quality healthcare and transplants for all, as well as much needed legislation for the kidney community with the National Kidney Foundation, Kidney Advocacy Committee-Voices for Kidney Health. Managing her symptoms for over 30 years, Thelma speaks to the importance of early detection, having a care partner, and working with your HCP to manage your Cardio-Renal-Metabolic conditions. Thelma has participated in several clinical journals and CKD/DKD learning modules to help further educate the community about this disease.