After being diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes in her teens, Shefali Parth Chauhan faced severe kidney complications, including pyelonephritis, nephrectomy, and eventual kidney failure. In 2015, her mother donated a kidney, giving her a second chance at life. Despite post-transplant challenges like recurring UTIs and diabetes management, she persevered. With careful medical planning, she conceived in 2024 and gave birth to a healthy baby boy in November, embracing a future filled with hope.
Life comes full circle
My Maa, the one who brought me into this world gave me a second life in 2015 by donating a kidney. Every year on October 23, we have a dual celebration—it is both my mother’s birthday and my ‘kidneyversary.’
There is much to celebrate in my life now, as my husband and I look forward to welcoming our first baby, who will be arriving soon. Life is entering a new phase of joy and fulfillment, leaving behind the pain of recurrent health issues.
I was nearing the end of my teenage years when I was detected with type 1 diabetes during pre-surgery screening tests for an appendectomy [Editor’s note: Surgical procedure to remove the appendix]. Since then, I have been insulin dependent. Two years later, when I experienced excruciating abdominal pain, my parents took me to a reputed gastroenterologist in faraway Hyderabad, as there was no competent specialist in my town. I was diagnosed with pancreatitis, and a stent was placed in my pancreatic duct, requiring regular replacement and frequent hospital visits over a period of two years. Since this was both physically and financially draining, I underwent a permanent procedure known as pancreaticojejunostomy, a surgical procedure to treat chronic pancreatitis, which was done in 2010.
The same year, one kidney was affected by pyelonephritis (inflammation of the kidney caused by a specific type of UTI) and I had to undergo nephrectomy to remove the affected organ.
| I managed with a single functioning kidney until it failed in 2015, necessitating a transplant. | Life after the transplant continued to be a bumpy ride with recurring UTIs, steroid intolerance, and uncontrolled diabetes. |
In 2016, my remaining native kidney was surgically removed as it was identified as the source of my recurrent UTIs. Then, I got a wearable insulin pump, which has helped to keep my sugar levels in control since 2018. I have also been practicing yoga, which has been beneficial in many ways.
In 2019, with all my health issues resolved, I entered marital life with Parth Chauhan, a loving, caring and extremely supportive person. I feel blessed to have him in my life and for accepting me with a complete understanding of my medical history. As we intended to start family, my doctor had put me on pregnancy-safe medications two years ago. In March 2024, we welcomed the news of my conceiving with much joy. I have been regularly following up with my gynecologist and nephrologist who have been closely monitoring my progress.
(Update: I am delighted to add that I delivered a healthy baby boy on 19th November. With hope and prayers, we look forward to a blissful life ahead.)
Disclaimer: The blog series is intended for informational purposes only and is not meant to endorse or promote any specific drug, product, or brand. Each individual’s experience is unique and should not be construed as medical advice or a guarantee of similar results for others. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions regarding your health and well-being.
