Meet LaVise.
“Even when a person’s light begins to flicker, it can shine again.“
LaVise McCray is a kidney transplant recipient, patient advocate, mentor, and retired special education teacher whose journey reflects resilience, faith, and service.
Diagnosed with End-Stage Renal Disease in 2015 at the age of 35, LaVise spent nearly eight years navigating kidney failure, including peritoneal dialysis, hemodialysis, multiple access challenges, hospitalizations, and serious health setbacks. Through it all, she continued working full-time as a special education teacher and Special Olympics coach, determined not to let kidney disease define her life.
On March 25, 2023, LaVise received a life-saving kidney transplant. Her recovery included complications and emergency surgery, but with faith, determination, and the support of those around her, she regained her strength and mobility. She later completed a 5K in honor of her donor.
LaVise’s experience with dialysis, transplant, recovery, and the emotional weight of chronic illness inspired her passion for mental health, advocacy, and mentoring. She earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology and is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Social Work, with plans to continue toward a Master of Social Work.
Today, LaVise is dedicated to paying forward the gift she received. She volunteers with NJ Sharing Network, serves as a dialysis mentor, and works as a Community Manager for TransplantLyfe. Through advocacy, public speaking, mentoring, and community outreach, she shares her story to encourage organ donation and support others navigating kidney disease and transplant.
LaVise believes that even when a person’s light begins to flicker, it can shine again. As a ReMend Mentor, she hopes to be a source of encouragement, understanding, and hope for others facing chronic illness, dialysis, transplantation, and recovery.
