Advocating for Ourselves in Social and Healthcare Relationships

Unpacking the Gift of Life

Communication and speaking up for ourselves is so important, yet can feel exhausting. Valen, Cristen, and their friend, Noelia, dig deep into three aspects of communication as it relates to patient advocacy. First, experiences of advocating for ourselves in our social relationships with partners, loved ones, friends, and the community at large. Second, the meaning, purpose, and value of a trusting relationship with our healthcare teams. And third, they share conversations about internal dialogue, being kind to ourselves, and emotional honesty. Tune in to learn ways to advocate for yourself, be empowered to have honest conversations, and live a meaningful life in the midst of chronic illness.

Learn more about your hosts:

• Valen Keefer, Patient Advocate, Consultant, Educator, Motivational Speaker: www.valenkeefer.com
• Cristen Wathen, Licensed Counselor and Associate Professor at Palo Alto University: https://www.paloaltou.edu/faculty/cristen-wathen-phd-lcpc-ncc

Additional resources:

• Letters of Hope - a docuseries on the trials and triumphs of transplantation: Letters of Hope | Valen Keefer
• Chronic Illness and Assertiveness - Setting firm boundaries for better health: Chronic Illness and Assertiveness- Psychology Today
• Minority Health Resources: US Department of Health and Human Services Office of Minority Health
• Treatment Challenges in Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease - Continuing research, current treatment guidelines, and a look at why Black and Hispanic populations are chronically underserved: Polycystic Kidney Disease BIPOC Treatment Challenges
• NKF Peers en Español: https://www.kidney.org/es/peers