Kathryn "Kathy" Gentemann

Hi, my name is Kathryn Gentemann and I would like to introduce myself as your AlphaNet Coordinator.

I live in Lake St. Louis, Missouri with my husband Steve.  I have 4 adult children and 5 grandchildren that are the light of my life.  I also have a puppy who is spoiled and adorable.

In 2013, while in the hospital with pneumonia, I met with a pulmonologist for the first time in my life.  The pulmonologist ran some standard tests and even did a lung biopsy because he thought I had lung cancer.  After the tests came back negative, which was great news, I was still not feeling myself and was very fatigued.  My pulmonologist at the time retired and I started seeing another in the practice, who literally saved my life.  He wanted to some blood work and assured me that things were going to be okay.

After the initial blood test, I was contacted to come into the office for more blood work to confirm the previous results and he wanted to meet for a consultation.  This is when I found out about Alpha-1 and was diagnosed as a ZZ Alpha.  I left his office scared, confused and worried.  I reached out to my family members so that they could get tested right away.  From the blood work and phone call to my family, we identified additional family members that are also ZZs.  Shortly thereafter, we all started augmentation therapy at the same time.

In my free time I enjoy fishing, boating and spending time with my family.  I also love sleepovers with the grands and watching movies.

I look forward to serving you as your Coordinator and together we can learn how to live our best life with Alpha-1.