How Life Coaching Helps a Chronic Kidney Disease Patient Manage Diabetes and Stay Motivated

Jennifer Gowans, a patient ambassador for the American Kidney Fund, finds purpose in helping others—a strategy that sustains her while living with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and chronic kidney disease (CKD).

CKD is a progressive loss of kidney function that often stems from high blood‑sugar damage to the kidney’s tiny filtering units, the glomeruli. In the United States, T2D accounts for roughly 50 % of CKD cases, creating a cycle where each condition can aggravate the other.

Why Coaching Is My Anchor

I am a certified life coach with a podcast and social‑media platforms where I guide people through relationship challenges. Speaking openly about my own health journey lets me model resilience and offers a safe space for others facing similar struggles.

Finding Fulfillment Through Mentorship

Mentoring gives me a deep sense of fulfillment and keeps my mental health in check. That positivity fuels my fight against CKD and T2D, allowing me to show up as an authentic, supportive coach.

Everyone needs an activity that feels meaningful. Coaching provides that purpose for me.

From Discovery to Certification

I first encountered life coaching in 2013 and earned my certification in 2014. The prospect of turning a passion for empowerment into a career felt like a natural next step.

Adapting Coaching to My Treatment Schedule

Before my diagnosis, I already coached and mentored. After learning I needed dialysis, I redesigned my practice to be flexible—conducting sessions from home around my continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) routine and diabetes management.

The Greatest Support System

My husband of 24 years is my biggest cheerleader. He has prayed, exercised with me, co‑hosted my podcast, and even volunteered to donate a kidney. Unfortunately, screening revealed he has high blood pressure, making donation impossible, but his daily encouragement remains invaluable.

Health Benefits of Coaching

Staying active as a coach keeps me motivated to monitor my blood sugar, follow a kidney‑friendly diet, and maintain a low A1C. The flexibility of remote coaching lets me adhere to treatment schedules, which has improved my overall health while I await a transplant.

Practical Coping Strategies for CKD and T2D

Living with both CKD and T2D can feel overwhelming. My approach centers on activities that bring joy—like helping others—and building a supportive network. Even if you’re not a mentor, joining CKD or diabetes support groups can provide camaraderie and shared coping tools.

Jennifer Gowans is a seasoned relationship coach and American Kidney Fund ambassador. She hosts the podcast “The Real Housewife of Texas,” where she and her husband discuss relationships, health, and marriage. Jennifer is on the kidney‑donor list and currently manages her condition with CAPD.