Hi everyone, my name is Lisa, based in “sunny Sarfend” and I’ve been on dialysis since Nov 2025 and what a journey it has been! As a result, I’m in the process of setting up a local support group for other dialysis patients at Southend Hospital, especially those who live by themselves and are still trying to navigate this new season in their lives.
This is solely based on my own experience, with little or no local support. Don’t get me wrong, the hospital renal team are GREAT, but they’re not alwaysavailable to answer what may seem to be “obvious questions with an obvious answer”
So, im calling on your support and encouragement as I really want to be part of the solution … rather than sit and moan!
The name of the group will be “The Southend Dialysis Support Group (SDSG)” & it’s still on the draft stage. Wish me well!!!
Hello Lisa, What a good idea, Any help you require will be given here, I am sure. But we are all at different locations around the country.. Maybe you should put this forum forward as part of your support group. Best wishes B. ps, I used to live in Stock, just outside Billericay half a century ago. B
What a fantastic idea to set up a local support group for patients based at Southend Hospital! So inspiring to hear that you want to take steps to make things better for not only you, but others too .
You might find it helpful to get in touch with the National Kidney Federation (NKF). They support and coordinate Kidney Patient Associations (KPA’s) across the UK, many of which are based in hospital renal units and led by patients themselves. They may be able to offer guidance on next steps and share learning from other groups that have done something similar.
You can see the current Kidney Patient Associations here:
Wishing you every success with The Southend Dialysis Support Group (SDSG). It takes real strength to turn a difficult personal journey into something that will help others.
You’re absolutely right that while the renal team do an amazing job, there are so many everyday questions, worries, and emotional ups and downs that only someone living a similar journey truly understands. Peer support can make such a difference, especially for people who live alone or are still adjusting to dialysis life.
I really wish there was something similar in my own area, but unfortunately I’m under a different hospital to where I live, so sometimes it can feel like being a bit of an outsider. Due to recent stroke recovery, travelling is also difficult for me, which makes local support even more important. I think that’s exactly why community forums like this one are so valuable and help connect people who might otherwise feel isolated.
Southend is lucky to have someone like you stepping up to be part of the solution rather than just accepting the gaps. I’m sure many people will benefit from having a safe, understanding space to talk, share experiences, and feel less alone.
Wishing you all the best as you get things off the ground. I hope it grows into a strong and supportive community. Please keep us updated on how it progresses!
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