In 2023, Keâna Nicole Montoro’s life changed overnight. What began as a spike in blood pressure led to a shocking diagnosis: IgA nephropathy, a rare autoimmune kidney condition. By the time she was diagnosed, her kidney function had dropped to just 20%.

Keâna’s story is one of confusion, fear, and ultimately, resilience. Despite regular medical checkups, there were no warning signs loud enough to prepare her for what came next — hospitalization, medical uncertainty, and, in 2024, the start of dialysis.

As a mother and grandmother, Keâna speaks honestly about the psychological toll of kidney failure: the grief of losing her sense of “normal,” the impact on her identity, and the emotional work required to show up for her family while undergoing dialysis.

She also opens up about:

• The long delay in diagnosis despite the symptoms

• The emotional aftermath of hospitalization

• Struggles with mental health, faith, and self-worth

• The invisible weight carried by caregivers and loved ones

• Finding meaning and purpose again — through advocacy and community

For those living with chronic kidney disease (CKD), or supporting someone who is, Keâna’s story offers solidarity. It is a reminder that while kidney failure is a medical diagnosis, it is also a deeply human experience — shaped by emotion, connection, and inner strength.

“I didn’t even know my kidneys were failing… It made me question everything — my body, my faith, my future. But I also found a deeper part of myself.”

Watch the Full Interview

Support Keâna’s Journey

Keâna is passionate about raising awareness for rare kidney conditions and mental health in chronic illness. If you’d like to reach out, collaborate, or send support:

Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/kidneyforkeana/]

Please follow and share her story to help raise awareness.

Why Stories Like Keâna’s Matter

At Psychonephrology.com, we explore how kidney disease affects not just the body, but the mind and soul. Stories like Keâna’s illuminate the psychological impact of living with uncertainty, navigating a healthcare system, and holding onto hope in the face of loss.

Join the Conversation

If you or someone you love is living with CKD or dialysis, we’d love to hear from you. Share your story, connect with others, or explore our articles on caregiving, emotional resilience, and mental health in kidney disease.

Our dear friend Keâna is more than just a name — she’s a loving mother, a devoted grandmother, and a cherished presence in the lives of so many. Her warmth, strength, and kindness have touched everyone lucky enough to know her.

Keâna was diagnosed with IGA Nepropathy in August 2023. She started dialysis in September 2024 and has now been committed to sharing her journey with the hopes of spreading awareness of this disease