CHESHIRE, Conn. (WTNH) — This workout is a challenge. Just looking at her, you wouldn’t know that 41-year-old Kelly McDermott is on dialysis, and in need of a new kidney.
It’s just the latest struggle in this Hamden woman’s life that’s not getting her down.
“I was 19 at Albertus Magnus College,” she said, remembering back to when her health challenges began.
After not feeling well, McDermott was diagnosed with a rare form of germ cell cancer.
She spent a year in the hospital undergoing chemotherapy and a stem cell transplant, all taking an enormous toll on her body.
“I was in an induced medical coma. When I woke up, I had to learn how to walk, talk, read, swallow, chew, everything,” she said.
“I just started moving great, I could move so well in the pool,” she said.
Fast forward 20 years and her relationship with Gaylord continues.
She’s done physical therapy at theirfacility in Cheshirefor years, alongside Eric Lagoy.
“I try to make her programs challenging for her and she’s always up for the challenge,” he said. “She’s the first person to let me know if it’s getting too easy.”
“Everyone has a coach, a mentor, a boss in their life and he is,” McDermott said.
This daughter, sister, aunt and dog mom never stops as she rock climbs, snowboards, plays pickleball, and golf.
She’s keeping herself in shape as she searches for a living kidney donor so that she’s healthy and strong as she looks toward the future.
“I know there is someone out there. I have hope. And I pray. I’m not gonna give up,” she said.
