Unpacking the Gift of Life
Our experiences shape more than our health. They shape our relationships, our identity, and the way we move through the world. In Season 3, Unpacking the Gift of Life explores the intersection of health, humanity, and connection—with hope, honesty, and hard-won insight to navigate care, find purpose, and live well alongside chronic illness.
Hosted by patient advocacy leader and two-time transplant recipient Valen Keefer, every episode is a reminder that none of us are navigating it alone. Through real stories from patients, transplant survivors, healthcare providers, researchers, and advocates, we share heartfelt conversations about building resilience, finding connection, and discovering the perspectives that make life so beautiful.
Unpacking the Gift of Life
On the Cutting Edge: Engaging in Rare Disease Research
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Patients are key to advancing rare disease treatment. IgA nephropathy (IgAN) patient Russ Roberts and his nephrologist Dr. Arnold Silva discuss the role of clinical trials in rare kidney disease research and how patients and providers can work together to shape the future of treatment. Get practical advice on how to get involved in clinical research and make a difference.
About Your Host
Valen Keefer – Patient Advocacy Leader, Health Educator, & Strategic Consultant, www.valenkeefer.com
Additional Resources
- CaRe network for patients and clinicians to locate investigators participating in clinical trials – Cardio Renal Institute, https://cardiorenalinstitute.com/
- Clinical Trials from Around the World, https://clinicaltrials.gov
- IgA Nephropathy Foundation, https://igan.org/