I was born with chronic kidney disease and only one kidney. I was diagnosed at just three weeks old, with an eGFR of 33 from birth, and my kidney function gradually declined throughout my life.

I grew up within paediatric renal services before transitioning into adult care. Over the years, I have witnessed significant changes in renal medicine, many of which have had a direct and life-changing impact on my care.

I spent nearly six years on peritoneal dialysis, using both CAPD and APD, before receiving my first kidney transplant. Sadly, acute rejection progressed to chronic rejection, and after a few years I had to return to dialysis.

I initially returned to peritoneal dialysis, but after many years of PD earlier in life my peritoneum was no longer able to function effectively. I therefore moved on to haemodialysis. Over time, I have had multiple forms of vascular access, including fistulas and grafts in both arms and a graft in my leg. I truly owe my life to my incredible vascular access team.

I spent nearly seven years on haemodialysis, initially in-centre. During this time, I struggled greatly with needling. A close friend suggested I try self-cannulation, which initially felt completely unrealistic. However, from the very first needle I inserted myself, everything changed. I felt nothing, and for the first time I regained a sense of control I hadn’t realised I’d lost.

This led me to home haemodialysis. From the moment I entered the home training unit, I knew my life was about to change. The support I received was exceptional, and doing solo home haemodialysis was one of the best decisions I have ever made. It gave me independence, confidence, and a significantly improved quality of life.

Years later, I received my second kidney transplant. Although the surgery was successful, I experienced significant complications, particularly with my bladder, and spent much of the first year in and out of hospital.

In September, I marked my seventh transplant anniversary. While this kidney has lower function than my first, it has already lasted almost three times as long. Despite ongoing complications with calcium, magnesium, haemoglobin levels, and the need for transfusions, this transplant continues to work, and I remain hopeful for the future.

I would not be where I am today without the dedication of my medical, surgical, nursing, and support teams. My heartfelt thanks will always go to my incredible donors and their families