Hi Everybody!
It has been awhile since I last posted. We are now well into the new year and there are many new beginnings and some endings happening for me. Here is a quick summary of my new beginnings this year:
-I start officially taking part in the Alport Syndrome study for my disease tomorrow after successfully meeting the criteria as a study participant last November.
-I was officially named the event coach for the San Diego Marathon for Team in Training and have many amazing friends that are participants on this team!
-Effective April 1st, I will no longer be employed at the company I worked at the last 36 years! (This is actually and end and a beginning)
-I will embark upon getting certified to become a personal trainer.
As you can see, my life is definitely changing with some exciting new beginnings!!
Now, for an update on my disease, as I noted I start the study this week. I will be going every 3 months to get studied to understand how the disease impacts families. I also just found out this past week from my doctor that based on my current rate of decline of my “GFR” or kidney function, I may need a transplant in 2 years BUT there is also good news in that it appears they may be starting the experimental drug for the Alport study this year and I may get a crack at it! I will know more in the next several weeks but this is very exciting and hopeful!
I just want to close by again saying how hopeful and grateful I am to have such amazing people in my life that are willing to give so much of themselves! Especially Shawn Hoppe who has already completed all of the testing and is there for me when I need the transplant and the 2 other amazing people that are back-ups who I also am totally inspired by!
Heres to new beginnings!!
Until next time,
Gratefully and with such hope,
Gary Kawka
I WILL NEVER QUIT!!
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