Justin
I have been surrounded by kidneys quite literally my entire life. I was never fully aware of this until I began to think about the common things that the people in my life have. It is sometimes surprising that we are not and do not have to be consciously aware of our beating hearts, breathing lungs, and especially our silently bustling kidneys - all involuntary body functions controlled by vital, delicate organs. The significance of the kidney can be often overlooked or overshadowed by other organs and their biological processes. Among the fields of science, medicine, academia, sociology, politics, and economics, kidneys are relevant, and we all can get loud for kidneys!
Being a Get Loud For Kidneys Advocate, I want to effectively bring awareness to the significance of the kidney and kidney diseases in the collegiate community. Utilizing my science background and science communication skills, I want to not only educate the youth about the importance of kidneys, but also empower them to get loud about awareness, support, and solutions for kidney disease. As an undergraduate researcher at UC Santa Barbara, I aim to one day make a groundbreaking scientific discovery about renal physiology and nephropathology - hoping to spur forth personalized therapeutic options or even a cure to kidney diseases.
Having a mother who is a certified nephrology nurse for over 20 years now, I have seen her work on many occasions and have gotten to know some of her patients. All of them have their own original, inspiring stories to share, and listening to them have always empowered me to challenge the status quo. From them, I have developed this deep appreciation for the kidney as an organ, and this deep drive to get LOUD for those who are affected by chronic kidney diseases and need kidney transplantation.
It is an honor to be among people who want to get loud for kidneys, and I look forward to getting to know your story, your mission, and your ideas on ways college students can get loud for kidneys!
Location: Santa Barbara, CA
