It’s one thing to give a keynote. It’s another to know it made a difference. What means the most about being invited back for a third year isn’t the stage - it’s knowing messages are resonating.

This year at the The IgA Nephropathy Foundation SPARK Conference, I shared new content about how patients and caregivers can tap into different forms of rest to support their minds, bodies, and spirits. Whenever I speak, my goal is simple: help every person walk away with at least one practical tool they can use in their daily life.

I didn’t expect to hear from two audience members who had used tools from last year’s session:

😮‍💨 One woman shared that she began a simple breathing practice and no longer needs a medication she once relied on.
😴 One man said he now naps daily and feels noticeably happier and more energetic (a major win when managing chronic illness).

Running your own business can feel isolating, and I sometimes wonder if I’m making an impact. But these moments remind me why I do this work AND inspire me to let others know when they have made a difference in my life!

A reminder for all the helpers: you may never know the depth of the good you’re doing.

PS This was my first time having the honor of a graphic recorder - shout out to Paul Williams for his incredible work capturing messages during the session!