CLARKSDALE, Miss. — A Clarksdale woman who once relied on dialysis to survive is now giving back to the community that supported her during her battle with kidney failure.
Evelyn Henry, a kidney transplant recipient, is continuing her outreach efforts following a successful 2025 New Year’s Gala fundraiser held to benefit local dialysis patients and support programs connected to the Mississippi Kidney Foundation.
Henry, who was diagnosed with end-stage renal failure and underwent dialysis before receiving a kidney transplant, organized the gala to raise funds for encouragement initiatives aimed at patients currently undergoing treatment. Proceeds will help provide encouragement bags, inspirational message cards and other community support resources for dialysis patients, as well as contribute to foundation-related programs.
“Dialysis was part of my journey, but it was not the end of my story,” Henry said. “I kept going, and God blessed me with a new kidney. Now, I want to use my testimony to uplift others and show them that there is hope.”
Henry is scheduled to visit a Clarksdale dialysis clinic Feb. 18–19 to meet with patients receiving treatment and thank medical staff members for what she described as their dedication and compassionate care during her own medical journey.
“I know what it feels like to sit in that chair,” she said. “If I can encourage even one person to keep going, then I know I’m walking in my purpose.”
Henry said her outreach focuses on spreading awareness, faith and practical support to individuals and families affected by kidney disease across the Mississippi Delta.
For more information about Henry’s outreach efforts or ways to support her mission, visit https://evelynlhenry.com.
