# @kirstenalana on Instagram

- **Type:** Image
- **Original URL:** https://www.instagram.com/p/DehQyLvG9Nt
- **Gondola URL:** https://gondola.cc/posts/76126516-kirstenalana-instagram
- **Thumbnail:** https://img.gondola.cc/tr:w-,h-,fo-auto/postThumbnails/3302d451cb.jpg
- **Posted:** 2026-10-15T15:18:07.000+00:00
- **Account Owner:** Kirsten Alana (@KirstenAlana) — https://gondola.cc/KirstenAlana

## Caption

Hi! Sorry it’s been a while. Again. When I’ve taken breaks in the past for mental health, my time away was usually unplanned and shorter. 

This time, it just happened after I was diagnosed with kidney disease, and suddenly 10 months had passed. At first, the worst that could be said about my CKD was that it was an adjustment. But after a stay in the hospital, I’m working to accept a life that looks so very different from what I thought I’d have. Even Stage 4 CKD is one of those things that doesn’t make people “look sick,” but I am. And it does affect the way I’m able to do the jobs I’ve always loved, like travel photography. In the sense that I can no longer do it full time. Coming to terms with that in 2026 has been one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do. Because I loved it so much that it became who I was, not just what I did. 

Nowadays I’ll be working all sorts of gig jobs. And background acting! Which I’ve found a particular love for. (Headshot by Hilary Jones.)

Next month I’m going to be an election worker for the second time. It’s a privilege to be part of the process, especially at this time in history, and I’m grateful that I get to do it. 

As I continue to adapt, you won’t ever see me as frequently here as you used to. My posts may be far more random than they ever were, and my ability to keep up with DMs is practically nonexistent, but I’ll still stop in to say hi whenever I’m able, and I need you to understand that your friendship since I began my journey here on IG in 2010 has meant more to me than anything. More than the countries themselves, the first-class flights, and all the gifts brands have been so kind to send my way. 

I’ve been called an influencer, but it’s you who have influenced me to remember the bright side of social media: community. Thank you for the opportunities that you have brought into my life. Thank you for the ways you’ve been there for me. 

Please comment and let me know how you and yours are! ❤️ I hope, well? 
Love, Kirsten

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## Credits

These are the roles credited on Gondola. Credits may be incomplete.
A brand, account owner, or featured person is not necessarily the creator.

| Name | Username | Profile | Role |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Kirsten Alana | @KirstenAlana | https://gondola.cc/KirstenAlana | Photographer |

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