Andrea’s Story
For Andrea, IgA Nephropathy is not just a cause she supports, it is something she lives with every single day.
This Kidney Awareness Month, Andrea Stup is channeling her personal journey into meaningful action by hosting a fundraiser at her restaurant, Memories Charcoal House, in Mt. Airy, Maryland. What began as a desire to raise awareness has grown into a powerful example of how one person can use their platform to educate, connect, and inspire.
Andrea’s motivation is simple yet deeply impactful. IgA Nephropathy remains a disease that many people have never heard of, and she knows firsthand how overwhelming and isolating that can feel. By sharing information and starting conversations, she hopes that even one person might feel less confused, less scared, or more supported. For Andrea, that alone makes the effort worthwhile.
As a restaurant owner, Andrea interacts with hundreds of people each week. She has transformed those everyday interactions into opportunities for awareness. Whether it is a small donation added at checkout or a guest scanning a QR code to learn more, each moment becomes a chance to introduce someone to IgAN. Even if only a handful of people leave with a better understanding of the disease, Andrea knows that impact matters.
Memories Charcoal House is more than just a restaurant. It is a cornerstone of the Mt. Airy community. Andrea began working there in 2001 and became an owner and operator on January 1, 2009. Over the years, she has helped build it into a space that consistently gives back by hosting fundraisers, supporting local schools, and uplifting youth programs. This campaign is a natural extension of that commitment, using what she has built to make a difference beyond the restaurant’s walls.
Andrea’s connection to the IgA Nephropathy Foundation began after her diagnosis in March 2023. Like many patients, she initially felt overwhelmed and alone while searching for answers. Finding the Foundation provided not only information, but also a sense of community and understanding that made a meaningful difference in her journey.
Over time, Andrea knew she wanted to do more than receive support. She wanted to be a source of support for others navigating similar challenges. Becoming a Maryland Ambassador felt like a natural step, though she waited until she felt strong enough in her health to fully commit. Today, she is using her voice and experience to advocate, educate, and connect patients and families to critical resources.
Looking ahead, Andrea hopes this fundraiser is just the beginning. She envisions growing awareness across Maryland, strengthening patient connections, and contributing to progress toward better treatments and ultimately a cure. Her goal is clear: if she can help even one person feel less alone or contribute to advancing research, then every effort is worth it.
Andrea’s story is a powerful reminder that advocacy can start anywhere. Through her resilience, leadership, and deep connection to her community, she is helping bring visibility to IgA Nephropathy and ensuring that more patients feel seen, supported, and empowered.
