3 Strive Nurses Share an Inside Look Into Nephrology Nursing

At Strive Health, our mission to improve kidney care relies on our dedicated nurses. Our registered nurse care managers (RNCMs) share their expertise and compassion to create a personalized patient care experience. They play a crucial role in helping people get the medical support — and outcome — they deserve.

Meet RNCMs Cherri Furness, Jennifer Ring and Christy White. Having joined Strive within the last few years, they bring valuable perspectives to nephrology nursing. They recently shared thoughts about their roles and the importance of kidney care.

What do you do in your role at Strive and why/how did you get into this field?

Cherri: I joined Strive a little over a year ago. In my role, I care for patients with kidney disease through phone, video and occasional home visits. I help schedule their medical appointments and educate them about their condition. Whether talking with their nephrologist for a medication adjustment or training for home dialysis, my goal is to help them enjoy life despite their disease.

Jennifer: While working as a home therapy nurse, I got a call from Strive during one of my toughest days. I was excited to interview and accept the RNCM position here. I’ve now been with Strive for over two years and have fallen in love with care management. I currently work with our Bon Secours Mercy Health and Medical Mutual of Ohio contracts.

Christy: I started in nephrology as an in-center hemodialysis (ICHD) nurse before transferring to home dialysis. As a home dialysis nurse, I focused on education to improve well-being. I taught patients and caregivers how to do their treatments at home, manage their condition and troubleshoot for complications. This approach allows patients to have independence in their care. I stayed in home dialysis for 15 years before joining Strive in December 2023.

As an RNCM with Strive, I provide high-quality care to patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) and other chronic conditions. I aim to improve patient outcomes in everything I do. So, I take the time to get to know my patients during an initial assessment, where we’ll discuss symptoms and medical history. I also explain conditions and treatments so patients understand their health.

Why do you Strive?

Cherri: I strive to help others live their best life. A little help goes a long way, and patients appreciate that support. It makes me feel good about my job.

My other motivator is my son. When his kidneys failed two years ago due to untreated hypertension, I stepped up to be his care partner for home hemodialysis. A kidney transplant would be a great option for him. So, as many moms would do anything for their children, I will donate a kidney on Sept. 17 to an unknown recipient. In doing so, my son will receive a voucher from the National Kidney Registry for a living kidney donation when he qualifies. The living kidney waitlist is only three to six months, compared to seven years for a cadaver kidney. I am so excited to support my son and my kidney recipient. What a life-changing event for them!

Jennifer: I strive to provide hope for patients during difficult moments. Through education, support and care coordination, I empower them to make the best decisions for their health. Many patients in my previous role didn’t know their CKD stage or treatment options. It’s scary to feel unprepared or uneducated about your health. I want to be the care partner that reminds them they’re not alone.

Christy: I strive to ensure that patients have the opportunity and education to manage their disease effectively. The CKD and ESKD populations are underserved, and many patients are unaware of their condition. This is unacceptable, and I want to change their outcome for the better.

What advice would you give to anyone wanting to get into the nephrology nursing field?

Cherri: Nephrology desperately needs more nurses. Although it can be difficult at times, nephrology is also incredibly rewarding. It’s gratifying to know that you really make a difference in patients’ lives. Your work is so appreciated.

Jennifer: Kidney disease doesn’t receive nearly enough attention. There is so much to do about disease management and prevention. It is a tough specialty, but our patients come from all walks of life. Never underestimate the difference you can make to someone. It makes for an incredibly fulfilling job.

Christy: Nephrology is an exciting field that constantly changes with technology and education. Nurses also have a variety of work settings. But the biggest reward is your impact on patients and their families.

How do you decompress during your free time when you’re not helping patients?

Cherri: I love to go outside with my Springer Spaniel. I also enjoy visiting our nearby beach house, where there is always a project to work on.

Jennifer: I absolutely love to escape in a good book. I have read almost 100 books this year. My favorites are psychological thrillers. I also love to walk in my neighborhood to my local coffee shop. You’ll find me there studying for my CCM.

Christy: I like to spend quality time with my family and friends. You’ll find us boating, swimming or trying new restaurants.

Interested in a nephrology nurse position? Visit our Careers Site to explore open opportunities.