Kidney disease affects more than 1 in 7 adults in the United States, yet many people do not realize they are at risk until symptoms become serious. For some patients, kidney disease is tied to rare or genetic causes, making diagnosis and treatment even more complex.

In this episode of DNA Today, we explore focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), APOL1-mediated kidney disease (AMKD), and the real-life impact of navigating a rare kidney disease diagnosis as a young adult.

Joining the show is Emani McConnell-Brent, who shares her personal experience living with FSGS, from early symptoms and delayed diagnosis to the emotional toll of learning her kidney disease is genetic.

Also featured is Dr. Pranav Garimella, Chief Medical Officer at the American Kidney Fund, who explains the science behind FSGS, when genetic testing for conditions such as AMKD should be considered, and why earlier recognition of kidney disease symptoms can make such a meaningful difference.

Together, they discuss the importance of listening to patients, not dismissing early warning signs like protein in the urine, and improving access to genetic evaluation for people with unexplained kidney disease or a family history of kidney problems.

Emani also opens up about how kidney disease changed her daily life, from monitoring her blood pressure and swelling to adjusting her plans, energy, and expectations as a young adult. Her story is a powerful reminder that earlier diagnosis does not just impact medical management, it can also shape a person’s mental health, future planning, and sense of control.

The episode also highlights the work of the American Kidney Fund, including its mission to support people living with kidney disease through education, advocacy, prevention, and resources for both patients and healthcare providers.

In This Episode, We Discuss:

What focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) is
How FSGS affects kidney function
Emani McConnell-Brent’s journey to diagnosis
The role of APOL1 genetic risk variants in kidney disease
Why persistent protein in the urine should not be overlooked
When genetic testing may be appropriate in kidney disease evaluation
The mental health and lifestyle impact of chronic kidney disease in young adults
How the American Kidney Fund supports patients, families, and providers

About the Guests

Emani McConnell-Brent is a full-time student at Bowie State University majoring in psychology. She is an advocate for kidney health and mental health. Despite Emani’s diagnosis of focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) in 2020, she has invariably displayed ambition, resilience and transparency. She refuses to allow her diagnosis or any lifelong outcomes to dictate her success. Instead, she views her diagnosis as an opportunity for advocacy and education. Emani has since devoted her platform to telling her story and to bringing awareness to APOL1-mediated kidney disease and health disparities among African Americans.

Dr. Pranav Garimella, MBBS, MPH, FASN, joined the American Kidney Fund as its first Chief Medical Officer in January 2025. A board-certified nephrologist and nationally recognized leader in rare kidney diseases, he also serves at UC San Diego Health as Director of Acute Dialysis Services and the Polycystic Kidney Disease Center of Excellence. Dr. Garimella is an accomplished researcher focused on kidney function, cardiovascular disease, bone health, and mortality, with NIH-funded work and more than 110 peer-reviewed publications. He is also a trained epidemiologist, frequent journal reviewer, and fellow of the American Society of Nephrology.

Resources Mentioned:

American Kidney Fund (AFK)
AKF's Unknown Causes of Kidney Disease Project
AKF’s Continuing education opportunities
AKF’s Explanation of APOL1-mediated kidney disease (AMKD)
Emani McConnell-Brent’s Instagram and LinkedIn advocacy
MedlinePlus’ Page on focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS)

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#391 Living with FSGS: A Genetic Kidney Disease Journey