Meet Cyrelle George of Cy Speaks in Covington

Today we’d like to introduce you to Cyrelle George.

In 2017 the entire scope of Cyrelle’s life shifted when she was diagnosed with End Stage Renal Disease. Not one to back down from a challenge nor buckle under pressure, Cyrelle took that diagnosis and became an advocate bringing awareness about kidney disease. Cyrelle is the host of a weekly kidney disease Facebook Live show promoting awareness, prevention, education and an overall zeal for life called, “Sisters Against Kidney Disease.” As well as speaking publicly in the community educating the masses about CKD awareness and prevention.

It is her work as a chronic kidney disease advocate that Cyrelle says has been the second most rewarding job, the first being a mother to her son, Bryce. Partnering with various kidney awareness organizations has allowed Cyrelle the opportunity to be a voice in the community and for those who are battling this disease on a daily basis.

Has it been a smooth road?
As one not only battling a chronic illness but advocating for others who are also ill the road is most definitely bumpy but sometimes it’s non existent. Trying navigate and fight for our care has become a way of life on this journey. Our struggles range from being misdiagnosed to inadequate care. Personally, I have faced and still face not having full medical coverage for everything required to not only help preserve my health but to ensure I’m still alive.

We’d love to hear more about your business.
My company Cy Speaks is a vehicle used to educate and empower those battling with Chronic Kidney Disease from surviving to thriving. I work to identify, secure and connect fellow warriors to much needed but often overlooked resources.

One of my greatest services provided is support, most people fail to realize the emotional and mental weight of being chronically ill. I provide a safe space for CKD warriors to express a full range emotions while empowering and reminding them that this disease does not have to be the end of their story but a different chapter of their lives. I help others see that there is still ability in disability, that they can still live full and vibrant lives even while facing kidney disease.

I like to believe what sets Cy Speaks apart is not the simple fact that I’m sharing feel good messages but I’m actually loving this message out loud. Before I become an advocate, I had to live it out and within for myself. I’m currently in need of a kidney myself but I knew and still know my story isn’t over and I was going to kick some kidney disease but while fighting! I remind people that you don’t have to look like what you’re going through and you certainly don’t have to take a bad diagnosis and die.

Is our city a good place to do what you do?
Honestly, I think our city is a great place for anyone desiring to start a business especially in advocacy. I do believe the lack partnership and support from the government makes it challenging to effectively help more people. I think a great place to start to improve this dynamic is one for the government to actually sit down with those who are patients and advocates to hear from those of us on the front line of this battle. A lot of policies are made for us without ever including us in the decision making process.

Contact Info:

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cyrellespeaks/

Image Credit:
Urban Kidney Alliance, Kennesia James, A David Dance

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