When Erin Turner was adopted from China as an infant, her family learned she had been born with only one underdeveloped kidney. Diagnosed with chronic kidney disease at just 11 months old, Erin grew up under the careful watch of her mom, a nurse at C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital, who encouraged healthy habits early on.
“She was on me a lot growing up—always reminding me to drink my water and watch my protein intake,” Erin recalls. Despite her diagnosis, Erin led an active life, participating in gymnastics throughout her childhood and teenage years.
In January 2022, Erin received a life-changing kidney transplant, never having to undergo dialysis. Just a year later, as a high school senior applying to colleges, Erin learned about the Richard D. Swartz/Maurie Ferriter Scholarship through a social worker at her kidney clinic. She applied and was thrilled to be selected.
“Out of all the applicants, I felt very grateful that my story touched someone. I felt very special when I got the news.”
Now a sophomore at the University of Michigan, Erin is studying biology with plans to become a veterinarian. She works part-time at a veterinary clinic in Pittsfield Township, plays alto saxophone in the Michigan Marching Band, and is active in KDSAP—a campus club focused on kidney disease awareness and screening. She also served as a camp counselor for children with kidney disease at the NKFM’s Kids Camp in Fenton, Michigan.
“Camp was a really good experience,” says Erin. “It helped me connect with kids who are going through what I went through. Even though I was exhausted, it was so worth it.”
Erin’s journey is a reminder that kidney disease doesn’t have to limit a person’s future. “You might feel like your life is over when you’re diagnosed,” she says, “but there are people who care about you and resources out there, like the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan. You’re not alone.”
Learn more about the Richard D. Swartz/Maurie Ferriter Scholarship at www.nkfm.org/scholarships.