Medical Staff
Shady Childers, CMA
Clinic Manager / Clinic Nurse
Shady Childers brings more than 22 years of experience as a Certified Medical Assistant to Advanced Kidney Care, where she also serves as Clinic Manager. Originally from Southwest Iowa, she attended Iowa Western Community College and completed her internship in pediatrics before beginning a career that has spanned OB/GYN, Internal Medicine, Orthopedics, and Nephrology.
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Known for going above and beyond for her patients, Shady takes pride in her career and embraces new challenges. She is a member of the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA) and has also earned certification as a medication aide. In her leadership role, she is dedicated to supporting both patients and staff while ensuring the clinic runs smoothly.
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Outside of work, Shady enjoys a full and active family life with her husband, three daughters, and their dog. She loves attending her girls’ activities, coaching varsity basketball cheerleading, traveling, spending time outdoors, and even chasing the thrill of roller coasters.
Katie Kennedy, CMA
Clinic Nurse
Katie Kennedy joined Advanced Kidney Care in August 2025 as a Clinic Nurse. She has been working in healthcare since 2012 after completing her degree at Vatterott College. Katie gained early experience during her externship at Work-Fit and has since built a strong clinical background working in urgent care, cardiology, and family practice.
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Katie enjoys getting to know patients, spending time with them, and helping them take steps to improve their health and quality of life. She believes that “everything happens for a reason,” a philosophy she carries into her care approach.
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Outside of work, Katie is a proud mom of three children—two girls and a boy, ages 15, 10, and 7—who keep her busy and inspired.
Office Staff
Wendy Leaders
Medical Receptionist / Front Desk
Wendy Leaders brings more than 30 years of experience in roles dedicated to helping people. A graduate of Bellevue University with a degree in Psychology, Wendy has worn many hats throughout her career—including entrepreneur, receptionist, business manager, bookkeeper, volunteer, and coach. At Advanced Kidney Care, she enjoys welcoming patients with a smile and making their experience as smooth and positive as possible.
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What drives Wendy most is connection—she thrives when she is supporting others and helping make their lives a little easier. Guided by her philosophy to “show up, work hard, and treat people with kindness,” she brings warmth and reliability to every interaction.
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Outside of work, Wendy is a proud wife and mom of three, a role she considers her most rewarding accomplishment. She enjoys spending time outdoors—horseback riding, hiking, gardening, and being with her beloved family dog.
Kelsie Skow
Medical Receptionist / Front Desk
Kelsie Skow brings nearly 10 years of healthcare experience to her role as a Medical Receptionist at Advanced Kidney Care. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Liberal Arts from the University of Iowa and is certified in CPR and First Aid.
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Kelsie is passionate about providing quality care and treating patients with the same respect and compassion she would want for herself. She values the importance of making each patient feel seen and cared for, rather than just a number.
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Outside of work, Kelsie enjoys spending her free time hiking, reading, gardening, baking, and being with her family.
