Olympic gold medalist Missy Franklin raises awareness ahead of National Kidney Month

JACKSON, Tenn. — Ahead of National Kidney Month this March, one Olympic gold medalist raises awareness.

Retired swimmer Missy Franklin’s family remained a priority to her throughout her career and beyond.

But her journey took an unexpected turn when her father was diagnosed with autosomal dominant poly-cystic kidney disease.

ADPKD is a rare genetic condition that causes cysts to form on the kidneys, requiring dialysis or a transplant.

“My dad did get a live organ donor, and she was also an Olympic gold medalist in swimming, which is so wild and that both my dad and Chrissy, his donor, are doing fantastic,” Franklin said.

This story proves the importance of disease education and early detection.

Open dialogue among families, proactive screenings and routine doctor visits can save lives.

Click here for more information on ADPKD.

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