Dedicated, hardworking, committed – those words describe Lenora Landrum who works in admissions and educational funding at Herzing University. Tommy Dennis, President of Herzing, says that Lenora is “as good as we’ve got.”
Lenora has been working at Herzing University for seven years. What makes Lenora different from other employees at Herzing is that she has kidney disease and is on dialysis. Upon starting dialysis in 2011, Lenora knew that she wanted to continue to work but didn’t know how she was going to be able to make it happen since dialysis is required three times a week and lasts 6 to 8 hours. She investigated her options and found out that she could choose nocturnal dialysis. She immediately approached her supervisor Kentray Sims at Herzing about an alternative work schedule. Tommy Dennis said, “Lenora has an intricate knowledge of the University which is expensive to replace. We were willing to work with her dialysis schedule so she could remain with us.” Lenora deals with her situation the best she can and says that, “I am in the right place for me. I have no complaints. I am so blessed.” She said that being able to remain in the workplace has helped her maintain her independence. It has kept her mind busy and her body moving.
Tommy Dennis would like to encourage other employers to look at their options with employees in situations like Lenora’s. Situations can work out to be a good partnership for both parties. Employers can maintain a good employee and the employee can remain mentally and physically engaged while making a contribution in life.
The Alabama Kidney Foundation is pleased to present this article to encourage employers to consider allowing employees to continue to be part of the workforce while undergoing dialysis treatment.
