Diary of a Kidney Warrior Podcast | Living with Kidney Disease

Episode 162: How Do You Ask Someone to Donate a Kidney? A Guide to Living Kidney Donation Conversations

How do you ask someone to donate a kidney?
 
For many people living with kidney failure, this can be one of the most difficult and emotional conversations they will ever face. Fear of rejection, concerns about damaging relationships, feelings of guilt and uncertainty about where to begin can prevent people from exploring living kidney donation as an option.
 
In this episode of Diary of a Kidney Warrior Podcast, host Dee Moore is joined by Jen Lumsdaine, Lead Nurse for Living Donation.
 
Jen previously worked as a Living Donor Transplant Coordinator in Edinburgh, completed a PhD examining the quality-of-life impact of living kidney donation for donors and recipients, and has worked to improve equitable access to living donor transplantation across Scotland.
 
Together they discuss:
 
💚 How to prepare emotionally before talking about living kidney donation
💚 Whether you should ask directly or raise awareness more generally
💚 How to keep the conversation open without putting pressure on others
💚 What to do if someone says no
💚 How to protect important relationships during the transplant journey
💚 Common misconceptions about living kidney donation
💚 Why every potential donor undergoes an independent assessment process
💚 The support available for donors and recipients
💚 Where to find trusted information and resources
 
Whether you’re waiting for a kidney transplant, supporting a loved one, considering becoming a living donor or simply want to learn more, this episode offers compassionate, practical guidance from one of the UK’s leading experts in living donation.
 
A special thank you to Jen and NHS Blood and Transplant for helping to make this episode possible.
 
🎧 Listen now and share with someone who may benefit from this important conversation.
 
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Become a living donor - NHS Organ Donation
 
https://www.organdonation.nhs.uk/become-a-living-donor/
 
Kidney Care UK
 
💻 Website: www.kidneycarekuk.org
📧 info@kidneycareuk.org
📞Tel: 01420 541 424
📘Facebook: www.facebook.com/kidneycareuk.org
📷Instagram: @kidneycareuk
🔵Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/kidneycareuk.bsky.social
📺YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeqQTdAsEzXphqjHVtcTD-A
 
📩 To sign up to receive the Kidney Matters Quarterly Magazine Email: info@kidneycareuk.org
 
For more information about GOLD (Gift of Living Donation)
 
 
Website: www.giftoflivingdonation.co.uk
Instagram: @giftoflivingdonation
Twitter: @delaidowu
Email: info@giftoflivingdonation.co.uk
 
Robert Dangoor Partnership | Give a Kidney | Kidney Donation | Live Kidney Donor
 
https://www.giveakidney.org/considering-donation/how-do-i-donate/robert-dangoor-partnership/
 
 
Donate A Kidney | Kidney Donation UK | Make Your Mark
https://www.donateakidney.co.uk/
 
 
 
Disclaimer:
 
The information shared in this episode is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your doctor, consultant, or qualified healthcare professional regarding your individual health needs and before making any medical decisions. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host, the Diary of a Kidney Warrior Podcast, or Kidney Care UK and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organisation, company, individual or anyone or anything.
 
 
#DiaryOfAKidneyWarriorPodcast #KidneyTransplant #LivingKidneyDonation #KidneyFailure #KidneyDisease #CKD #OrganDonation #TransplantJourney #KidneyPatient #NHSBloodAndTransplant #LivingDonation #KidneyHealth #RenalCare

Episode 161: From Palliative Care to Purpose: Rebecca’s Journey Through Kidney Failure, Dialysis & Transplant Loss

In this powerful episode of Diary of a Kidney Warrior Podcast, host Dee Moore is joined by Rebecca Griffiths, who shares her extraordinary journey through kidney failure, dialysis, kidney transplantation and transplant loss.
 
Rebecca’s story is one of resilience, determination and hope. After gaining approximately 25kg of fluid in a matter of days and requiring emergency treatment to drain fluid from around her heart, she found herself facing kidney failure without the support of a renal team. What followed was a life-changing journey that included dialysis, a kidney transplant, the devastating loss of that transplant and the challenge of starting again.
 
In this episode, Rebecca discusses:
 
💚 Her diagnosis and rapid decline in kidney function
💚 Gaining 25kg of fluid in just one week
💚 Having fluid drained from around her heart
💚 Being sent home under palliative care
💚 Starting dialysis and adapting to a new way of life
💚 Receiving a kidney transplant
💚 The emotional impact of transplant failure
💚 Returning to dialysis and rebuilding her confidence
💚 Speaking in Parliament to advocate for kidney patients
💚 Finding purpose, strength and hope despite adversity
💚 Why life is not over on dialysis
 
Rebecca’s story is a powerful reminder that even in life’s darkest moments, hope remains possible and that a meaningful life can still be lived despite kidney disease.
 
🎧 Listen now and be inspired by a remarkable Kidney Warrior who refused to give up.
 
If you enjoyed this episode, please:
✅ Follow Diary of a Kidney Warrior Podcast
✅ Leave a rating and review
✅ Share this episode with family, friends and healthcare professionals
✅ Help us raise awareness of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD), dialysis, transplantation and organ donation
 
Medical Terms Explained
eGFR — a blood test score for how well your kidneys filter. A healthy result is around 90 or above. Rebecca's was 5.
Tessio line — a soft tube placed in the chest to connect you to a dialysis machine.
Uremia — a dangerous build-up of waste in the blood when the kidneys can't filter it out.
TPN — nutrition fed directly into a vein when you're too unwell to eat.
Renal nutcracker syndrome — a rare condition where a vein near the kidney gets compressed, causing pain and damage.
 
SPK (Simultaneous Pancreas and Kidney transplant) — receiving a new pancreas and kidney in the same operation, often offered to people with type 1 diabetes.
ICU — Intensive Care Unit, where the most seriously ill patients are monitored closely after major surgery.
HDU — High Dependency Unit, a step down from intensive care for close monitoring during recovery.
Biopsy — taking a tiny sample of tissue to check how the transplanted kidney is working.
Anti-rejection drugs — medicines that stop the body's immune system from attacking a transplanted organ.
 
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Rebecca 
📸Instagram: www.instagram.com/Rebecca.c.griffiths
📘Facebook: www.facebook.com/Rebecca Griffiths
 
Kidney Care UK
 
💻 Website: www.kidneycareuk.org
📧 info@kidneycareuk.org
📞Tel: 01420 541 424
📘Facebook: www.facebook.com/kidneycareuk.org
📷Instagram: @kidneycareuk
🔵Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/kidneycareuk.bsky.social
📺YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeqQTdAsEzXphqjHVtcTD-A
 
📩 To sign up to receive the Kidney Matters Quarterly Magazine Email: info@kidneycareuk.org
 
 
 
Disclaimer:
The information shared in this episode is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your doctor, consultant, or qualified healthcare professional regarding your individual health needs and before making any medical decisions. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host, the Diary of a Kidney Warrior Podcast, or Kidney Care UK and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organisation, company, individual or anyone or anything.
 
#DiaryOfAKidneyWarriorPodcast #KidneyWarrior #KidneyDisease #CKD #ChronicKidneyDisease #KidneyFailure #Dialysis #Haemodialysis #KidneyTransplant #TransplantJourney #TransplantFailure #OrganDonation #RenalPatient #KidneyHealth #PatientStory #ChronicIllness #InvisibleIllness #HealthPodcast #PatientAdvocacy #KidneyCommunity
 
Keywords:
Kidney disease, CKD, chronic kidney disease, kidney failure, dialysis, haemodialysis, kidney transplant, transplant failure, organ donation, kidney patient, renal patient, kidney advocacy, patient experience, kidney warrior, chronic illness, transplant journey, kidney awareness, living well on dialysis, kidney health podcast, Diary of a Kidney Warrior Podcast.

Episode 160: From Childhood Kidney Disease To Three Transplants | Johanna’s Kidney Warrior Story

Welcome to another episode of Diary of a Kidney Warrior Podcast. In this powerful Kidney Warrior Story episode, host Dee Moore is joined by Johanna, who shares her lifelong journey living with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD).
Diagnosed as a young child after years of unexplained symptoms, Johanna opens up about growing up with kidney disease, navigating dialysis, experiencing transplant loss, and undergoing multiple kidney transplants. She speaks honestly about the physical and emotional realities of living with CKD for decades, including the uncertainty that comes with transplantation and the challenges of returning to dialysis.
Johanna also shares the impact kidney disease has had on her mental wellbeing, family life, pregnancy, identity, and future plans. Throughout the conversation, she highlights the importance of resilience, support, advocacy, and finding joy in life despite the ongoing challenges of chronic illness.
This episode is an honest and deeply moving insight into the realities of long-term kidney disease and the strength it takes to keep moving forward through every stage of the journey.
In this episode, Johanna discusses:
Being diagnosed with kidney disease as a child
Growing up with CKD
The symptoms that led to diagnosis
Starting dialysis
Receiving her first kidney transplant
The emotional impact of transplant loss
Returning to dialysis
Undergoing further kidney transplants
Pregnancy after transplantation
The uncertainty of living with CKD
Mental health and emotional resilience
Finding hope whilst living with chronic illness
If you are living with kidney disease, supporting someone who is, or want to better understand the realities of CKD, this episode is not to be missed.
🎧 Listen now and join the conversation.
Until next time, take care and choose to live.
 
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Follow Johanna
 
📸Instagram: @mrsjohannabridges
 
Kidney Care UK
 
💻 Website: www.kidneycareuk.org
📧 info@kidneycareuk.org
📞Tel: 01420 541 424
📘Facebook: www.facebook.com/kidneycareuk.org
📷Instagram: @kidneycareuk
🔵Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/kidneycareuk.bsky.social
📺YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeqQTdAsEzXphqjHVtcTD-A
 
📩 To sign up to receive the Kidney Matters Quarterly Magazine Email: info@kidneycareuk.org
 
 
 
Disclaimer:
The information shared in this episode is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your doctor, consultant, or qualified healthcare professional regarding your individual health needs and before making any medical decisions. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host, the Diary of a Kidney Warrior Podcast, or Kidney Care UK and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organisation, company, individual or anyone or anything.
 
 
 
#KidneyDisease #CKD #KidneyTransplant #Dialysis #ChronicIllness #KidneyWarrior #TransplantJourney #KidneyFailure #KidneyHealthPodcast #DiaryOfAKidneyWarriorPodcast

Episode 159: She Donated Her Kidney to Save Her Sister | Lynsey’s Living Donor Story

In this powerful episode of Diary of a Kidney Warrior Podcast, Dee Moore speaks with Lynsey, living kidney donor and sister to Carla, whose story listeners heard in the previous episode.
 
This conversation explores the other side of kidney transplantation: the perspective of the person who makes the life-changing decision to donate.
 
Lynsey shares the emotional reality of watching her sister become seriously unwell, the moment she realised something was wrong, and the journey towards becoming a living donor. Together, Dee and Lynsey discuss family, fear, love, guilt, hope, and the extraordinary bond between sisters.
 
This deeply moving episode shines a light on living kidney donation, the impact of kidney disease on families, and the incredible gift of life that living donors provide.
 
Topics discussed include:
• Recognising that something was seriously wrong
• Watching a loved one face kidney failure
• The emotional impact of living donation
• Family dynamics during chronic illness
• Testing and preparing to become a donor
• Recovery after kidney donation
• Life after transplant
• The importance of raising awareness about living kidney donation
 
If you or someone you love is navigating kidney disease, dialysis, transplant, or considering living donation, this episode offers insight, honesty, and hope.
 
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For more information about living kidney donation and support services:
 
Kidney Care UK
 
💻 Website: www.kidneycareuk.org
📧 info@kidneycareuk.org
📞Tel: 01420 541 424
📘Facebook: www.facebook.com/kidneycareuk.org
📷Instagram: @kidneycareuk
🔵Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/kidneycareuk.bsky.social
📺YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeqQTdAsEzXphqjHVtcTD-A
 
📩 To sign up to receive the Kidney Matters Quarterly Magazine Email: info@kidneycareuk.org
 
NHS Blood & Transplant:
 
Website: www.organdonation.nhs.uk
 
Twitter: NHS Blood & Transplant: @NHSBT
              NHS Organ Donation: @NHSOrganDonor
 
Facebook: www.facebook.com/nhsorgandonor
 
Instagram: NHS Organ Donation: @nhsorgandonor
 
YouTube: www.youtube.com/user/nhsorgandonation/channels
 
For Further Information Visit:
 
 
National Black, Asian, Mixed Race and Minority Ethnic Transplant Alliance
Website: www.nbta-uk.org.uk/
 
GOLD (Gift of Living Donation)
 
Website: www.giftoflivingdonation.co.uk
Instagram: @giftoflivingdonation
Twitter: @delaidowu
Email: info@giftoflivingdonation.co.uk
 
Give a Kidney Charity
 
Website: www.giveakidney.or
 
Disclaimer:
The information shared in this episode is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your doctor, consultant, or qualified healthcare professional regarding your individual health needs and before making any medical decisions. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host, the Diary of a Kidney Warrior Podcast, or Kidney Care UK and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organisation, company, individual or anyone or anything.
 
 
 
#DiaryOfAKidneyWarriorPodcast #KidneyTransplant #LivingDonation #LivingKidneyDonor #KidneyDisease #KidneyFailure #OrganDonation #TransplantJourney #KidneyWarrior #ChronicIllness #Dialysis #KidneyHealth #OrganDonationAwareness

Episode 158: Stage 5 Kidney Failure Without Warning: Carla’s Dialysis to Transplant Journey

Carla shares how she was diagnosed with stage 5 kidney failure without warning, leading to dialysis and ultimately a kidney transplant.
This episode explores missed signs, sudden diagnosis, and the reality of living through kidney failure.
 
In this episode of Diary of a Kidney Warrior Podcast, Dee Moore speaks with Carla — a kidney warrior and former mental health nurse — about her experience of being diagnosed with stage 5 kidney failure without warning.
 
After earlier test results showed declining kidney function, Carla did not receive follow-up — and later found herself sitting in front of a consultant being told her kidneys were functioning at just 12%. What followed was a sudden transition into dialysis, a challenging and emotional journey through treatment, and ultimately, a kidney transplant.
 
Carla shares her story with honesty and insight — from the shock of diagnosis, to navigating dialysis access and setbacks, to the mental and emotional toll of living with kidney failure.
 
This episode is a powerful reminder of how kidney disease can progress silently, and the importance of listening to your body, asking questions, and advocating for your health.
 
🔹 Key Topics Covered
 
Stage 5 kidney failure diagnosis
Kidney disease progression and missed signs
Dialysis treatment and access challenges
Emotional impact of kidney failure
Kidney transplant journey
Patient experience and advocacy
 
If this episode resonated with you, please share it with someone who may benefit from hearing Carla’s story.
 
Follow Diary of a Kidney Warrior Podcast so you never miss an episode — and join the Diary of a Kidney Warrior family for updates, support, and community.
 
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Kidney Care UK
 
💻 Website: www.kidneycareuk.org
📧 info@kidneycareuk.org
📞Tel: 01420 541 424
📘Facebook: www.facebook.com/kidneycareuk.org
📷Instagram: @kidneycareuk
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📩 To sign up to receive the Kidney Matters Quarterly Magazine Email: info@kidneycareuk.org
 
 
 
Disclaimer:
The information shared in this episode is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your doctor, consultant, or qualified healthcare professional regarding your individual health needs and before making any medical decisions. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host, the Diary of a Kidney Warrior Podcast, or Kidney Care UK and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organisation, company, individual or anyone or anything.
 
 
 
kidney failure
stage 5 kidney failure
kidney disease
dialysis
kidney transplant
chronic kidney disease
renal failure
dialysis patient
transplant journey
kidney health
patient story
health podcast
medical podcast
chronic illness

Episode 157: From Emergency Dialysis to Marathon Finish Line: Cam’s Kidney Warrior Story

What does the difference a year make?
Less than a year ago, Cam was in hospital — so unwell that he didn’t want his children to see him.
Now… he’s preparing to run a marathon and attempt a world record.
In this powerful episode of Diary of a Kidney Warrior Podcast, Cam shares his journey from a seemingly minor ear infection… to crashing into emergency dialysis with no warning, no preparation, and his life turned upside down overnight.
 
This is a story about shock, survival, and what it really takes to rebuild your life after a diagnosis you never saw coming.
 
💚 IN THIS EPISODE, WE DISCUSS:
The early symptoms that were missed — and how everything escalated
The reality of starting dialysis suddenly
The emotional impact on family, especially children
Adjusting to life with kidney failure
Finding purpose and motivation after diagnosis
Training for a marathon whilst on dialysis
Attempting a world record to raise awareness
Why hope is still possible — even in the hardest moments
 
🎥 WATCH ON YOUTUBE (2-PART SERIES)
 
This conversation is also available as a 2-part visual episode on YouTube.
 
👉🏽👉 Part 1 https://youtu.be/7dGYoHE0xrY.  and 
👉🏽👉Part 2 https://youtu.be/AmyoG49k2-M  include the full video experience, additional context, and the journey in full.
 
💬 WHY THIS EPISODE MATTERS
 
Cam’s story is a reminder that kidney disease can happen suddenly — and without warning.
But it is also a powerful example of resilience, determination, and choosing to move forward… even when life changes overnight.
If you are on dialysis, awaiting transplant, or supporting someone who is — this episode is for you.
 
🤝 SUPPORT CAM
 
Support Cam’s World Record Marathon—Sponsor His Run!
 
 Kidney Care UK: Manchester Marathon 2026
 
Follow Cam on Instagram
 
https://www.instagram.com/dialysisdasher?igsh=MWI0ZHJnd2s4dHJqZQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
 
 
🔗 CONNECT WITH DIARY OF A KIDNEY WARRIOR
 
📸Instagram: www.instagram.com/diaryofakidneywarrior 
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💌 Join the Diary of a Kidney Warrior Family Mailing List
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Stay updated with new episodes and exclusive content!
👉🏽👉 Join here: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaO3ms71iUxipp1eeh2r
 
 
Kidney Care UK
 
💻 Website: www.kidneycareuk.org
📧 info@kidneycareuk.org
📞Tel: 01420 541 424
📘Facebook: www.facebook.com/kidneycareuk.org
📷Instagram: @kidneycareuk
🔵Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/kidneycareuk.bsky.social
📺YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeqQTdAsEzXphqjHVtcTD-A
 
📩 To sign up to receive the Kidney Matters Quarterly Magazine Email: info@kidneycareuk.org
 
 
 
💚 FINAL WORD
 
If this episode encouraged you, please share it — because someone out there needs to hear this story.
 
And as always,
 
Until next time, take care and choose to live. 💚
 
 
Disclaimer:
The information shared in this episode is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your doctor, consultant, or qualified healthcare professional regarding your individual health needs and before making any medical decisions. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host, the Diary of a Kidney Warrior Podcast, or Kidney Care UK and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organisation, company, individual or anyone or anything.
 
 
 
 
kidney disease, dialysis, kidney failure, marathon runner, chronic illness, transplant journey, kidney warrior, patient story, resilience, CKD, haemodialysis, fitness and chronic illness, UK kidney patient, health podcast, inspirational story, marathon world record attempt, Kidney Care UK, kidney awareness, Diary of a Kidney Warrior Podcast 

Episode 156: Diagnosed with PKD at 10 | Living with Hereditary Kidney Disease (CKD Story)

What is it like to be diagnosed with polycystic kidney disease (PKD) at just 10 years old—and to know it runs through your family?
 
In this powerful episode of Diary of a Kidney Warrior Podcast, Dee Moore speaks with Natasja about her lived experience of PKD, a hereditary kidney condition that has affected multiple generations of her family.
 
From her great-grandmother to her mother and beyond, kidney disease is not just part of Natasja’s story, it’s part of her family history.
 
In this honest and deeply personal conversation, Natasja shares what it’s like growing up with chronic kidney disease (CKD), navigating the emotional and physical realities of a lifelong condition, and facing serious complications along the way.
 
In this episode, we cover:
What polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is
Being diagnosed with kidney disease at a young age
The impact of hereditary kidney disease across generations
Living with chronic kidney disease (CKD)
Navigating serious health complications
Finding strength through lived experience
 
⚠️ Content note: This episode includes discussion of serious complications related to kidney disease that some listeners may find difficult.
 
This episode is a powerful reminder that behind every diagnosis is a real story, one of resilience, strength, and lived experience.
 
Follow Diary of a Kidney Warrior:
 
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👉🏽👉 Join here: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaO3ms71iUxipp1eeh2r
 
Kidney Care UK
 
💻 Website: www.kidneycareuk.org
📧 info@kidneycareuk.org
📞Tel: 01420 541 424
📘Facebook: www.facebook.com/kidneycareuk.org
📷Instagram: @kidneycareuk
🔵Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/kidneycareuk.bsky.social
📺YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeqQTdAsEzXphqjHVtcTD-A
 
📩 To sign up to receive the Kidney Matters Quarterly Magazine Email: info@kidneycareuk.org
 
 
 
Disclaimer:
The information shared in this episode is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your doctor, consultant, or qualified healthcare professional regarding your individual health needs and before making any medical decisions. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host, the Diary of a Kidney Warrior Podcast, or Kidney Care UK and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organisation, company, individual or anyone or anything.
 
#PKD #PolycysticKidneyDisease #CKD #KidneyDisease #KidneyWarrior #ChronicIllness #HealthPodcast #PatientStory #KidneyHealth #HereditaryDisease #DiaryofaKidneyWarriorPodcast
 
pkd, polycystic kidney disease, ckd, kidney disease, hereditary kidney disease, kidney health, chronic illness, patient story, kidney warrior, health podcast

A Personal Update: My GLP-1 Journey & How to Stay Connected

Hi Kidney Warriors and friends,  Dee Moore here!
I wanted to share a personal update with you.
Alongside the recent podcast episodes on weight and GLP-1, I’ve also shared a vlog on YouTube where I talk more openly about my own experience and how this connects to my kidney transplant journey.
 
📺 The vlog is available to watch on YouTube:
https://youtu.be/RAa5ipo8b6k
 
If you’re not already connected, you can also:
 
Follow Diary of a Kidney Warrior:
📸Instagram: www.instagram.com/diaryofakidneywarrior 
📘Facebook: www.facebook.com/diaryofakidneywarrior 
🐦Twitter (X): www.twitter.com/diaryofakidneyw 
🎵Tik Tok: @diaryofakidneywarrior 
📺Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChGUfib7lu9eKENlLJ6lafw
🔵 BlueSky: @diaryofakidneyw.bsky.social
 
💌 Join the (free) Diary of a Kidney Warrior Family Mailing List
Get updates on new episodes, vlogs, newsletters, and more!
👉🏽👉 Sign up here: https://diaryofakidneywarrior.getform.com/rjv47
 
📲 Follow Diary of a Kidney Warrior on WhatsApp (free)
Stay updated with new episodes and exclusive content!
👉🏽👉 Join here: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaO3ms71iUxipp1eeh2r
 
If you found this helpful, you can also watch/ listen to the recent episodes on weight, dialysis, transplant eligibility and GLP-1.
 
Episode 155: GLP-1 Medications, Weight Loss & Kidney Transplant Eligibility |  Beyond The Scale (Part 2)
https://kidneycareuk.org/get-support/podcast/beyond-the-scale-glp-1-medications-weight-loss-and-kidney-transplant-eligibility/
 
Episode 154: Weight, Dialysis & Kidney Transplant Eligibility | Beyond The Scale (Part 1):
https://kidneycareuk.org/get-support/podcast/beyond-the-scale-weight-dialysis-and-kidney-transplant-eligibility-part-1/
 
 
⚠️ Disclaimer:
This vlog is a personal update and is not part of the Diary of a Kidney Warrior Podcast partnership content.
 
This content is shared for awareness and educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Please speak to your healthcare team for guidance specific to you.
 
Until next time, take care and choose to live.
 
#diaryofakidneywarriorpodcast #kidneydisease #ckd #kidneytransplant #dialysis #glp1 #weightlossjourney #patientstory #kidneyhealth
 
kidney health podcast, kidney disease, chronic kidney disease, ckd, kidney transplant, dialysis, glp1, weight loss, transplant eligibility, patient story, kidney patient, uk health podcast, renal health, kidney awareness, health podcast
 
 
 

Episode 155: GLP-1, Weight Loss & Kidney Transplant Eligibility | Beyond The Scale (Part 2)

GLP-1 medications are being talked about everywhere right now — but what do they mean for people living with chronic kidney disease and dialysis?
 
In Part 2 of this two-part series, we focus on GLP-1 receptor agonists, how these medications work, and what kidney patients need to understand when considering weight loss treatments in the context of kidney transplant eligibility.
 
For many people living with chronic kidney disease (CKD), weight can influence access to transplant surgery. But navigating weight loss while on dialysis is complex, and treatments like GLP-1 medications should always be considered with specialist guidance.
 
In this episode of the Diary of a Kidney Warrior Podcast, host Dee Moore is joined by Dr Adrian Brown, Associate Professor in Nutrition and Dietetics, NIHR Advanced Fellow, and Senior Specialist Weight-Management and Bariatric Dietitian.
 
Together they explore:
 
• What GLP-1 receptor agonists are and how they work
• Why these medications must never be used without medical supervision
• The risks of buying weight-loss treatments online
• How GLP-1 medications may be considered for some kidney patients
• Why conversations about weight and transplant eligibility are often more complex than people realise
 
This episode highlights the importance of evidence-based information, patient safety, and open conversations between patients and their renal teams.
 
⚠️ This episode is for educational purposes only and does not replace personalised medical advice. Always speak with your healthcare team about your individual circumstances.
 
🎧 Listen now and continue the conversation.
 
If you found this episode helpful, please consider sharing it with someone navigating chronic kidney disease, dialysis, or kidney transplant pathways.
 
Part 1 of this series explores BMI, dialysis, and kidney transplant eligibility in more detail.
 
Follow Diary of a Kidney Warrior:
 
📸Instagram: www.instagram.com/diaryofakidneywarrior 
📘Facebook: www.facebook.com/diaryofakidneywarrior 
🐦Twitter (X): www.twitter.com/diaryofakidneyw 
🎵Tik Tok: @diaryofakidneywarrior 
📺Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChGUfib7lu9eKENlLJ6lafw
🔵 BlueSky: @diaryofakidneyw.bsky.social
 
💌 Join the Diary of a Kidney Warrior Family Mailing List
Get updates on new episodes, vlogs, newsletters, and more!
👉🏽👉 Sign up here: https://diaryofakidneywarrior.getform.com/rjv47
 
📲 Follow Diary of a Kidney Warrior on WhatsApp
Stay updated with new episodes and exclusive content!
👉🏽👉 Join here: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaO3ms71iUxipp1eeh2r
 
Follow Dr Adrian Twitter (X) @brownadey;
LinkedIn: Adrian Brown UCL Website: https://profiles.ucl.ac.uk/6560-adrian-brown
 
Kidney Care UK
 
💻 Website: www.kidneycareuk.org
📧 info@kidneycareuk.org
📞Tel: 01420 541 424
📘Facebook: www.facebook.com/kidneycareuk.org
📷Instagram: @kidneycareuk
🔵Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/kidneycareuk.bsky.social
📺YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeqQTdAsEzXphqjHVtcTD-A
 
📩 To sign up to receive the Kidney Matters Quarterly Magazine Email: info@kidneycareuk.org
 
 
 
Disclaimer:
The information shared in this episode is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your doctor, consultant, or qualified healthcare professional regarding your individual health needs and before making any medical decisions. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host, the Diary of a Kidney Warrior Podcast, or Kidney Care UK and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organisation, company, individual or anyone or anything.
 
GLP-1
Kidney transplant
Chronic kidney disease
Dialysis
Weight loss
Kidney health
Transplant eligibility
CKD
GLP-1 medications
Kidney disease podcast
 
 
 

Episode 154: BMI, Dialysis & Kidney Transplant Eligibility | Beyond The Scale (Part 1)

Can your BMI affect whether you are eligible for a kidney transplant?
 
For many people living with chronic kidney disease and dialysis, weight is not simply about health advice — it can directly influence access to transplant surgery.
 
In Part 1 of this two-part series, Dee Moore explores the realities of weight, BMI thresholds, and transplant eligibility.
 
Joined by Dr Adrian Brown, Associate Professor in Nutrition and Dietetics, NIHR Advanced Fellow, and Senior Specialist Weight-Management and Bariatric Dietitian, this episode unpacks:
 
• How BMI is used in transplant decision-making
• Why weight can influence surgical eligibility
• The challenges dialysis patients face when trying to lose weight
• The emotional impact of weight-related conversations
• The importance of patient advocacy
 
For many kidney patients, these discussions can feel overwhelming and deeply personal. This episode aims to bring clarity, compassion and understanding to a complex topic.
 
📌 This is Part 1 of a two-part discussion. In Part 2, we explore GLP-1 medications, weight loss treatment options, and what kidney patients need to consider when navigating transplant eligibility.
 
🎧 Listen now and continue the conversation.
 
Follow Diary of a Kidney Warrior:
 
📸Instagram: www.instagram.com/diaryofakidneywarrior 
📘Facebook: www.facebook.com/diaryofakidneywarrior 
🐦Twitter (X): www.twitter.com/diaryofakidneyw 
🎵Tik Tok: @diaryofakidneywarrior 
📺Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChGUfib7lu9eKENlLJ6lafw
🔵 BlueSky: @diaryofakidneyw.bsky.social
 
💌 Join the Diary of a Kidney Warrior Family Mailing List
Get updates on new episodes, vlogs, newsletters, and more!
👉🏽👉 Sign up here: https://diaryofakidneywarrior.getform.com/rjv47
 
📲 Follow Diary of a Kidney Warrior on WhatsApp
Stay updated with new episodes and exclusive content!
👉🏽👉 Join here: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaO3ms71iUxipp1eeh2r
 
Follow Dr Adrian Twitter (X) @brownadey;
LinkedIn: Adrian Brown UCL Website: https://profiles.ucl.ac.uk/6560-adrian-brown
 
Kidney Care UK
 
💻 Website: www.kidneycareuk.org
📧 info@kidneycareuk.org
📞Tel: 01420 541 424
📘Facebook: www.facebook.com/kidneycareuk.org
📷Instagram: @kidneycareuk
🔵Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/kidneycareuk.bsky.social
📺YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeqQTdAsEzXphqjHVtcTD-A
 
📩 To sign up to receive the Kidney Matters Quarterly Magazine Email: info@kidneycareuk.org
 
 
 
Disclaimer:
The information shared in this episode is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your doctor, consultant, or qualified healthcare professional regarding your individual health needs and before making any medical decisions. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host, the Diary of a Kidney Warrior Podcast, or Kidney Care UK and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organisation, company, individual or anyone or anything.
 
 
 
 
#diaryofakidneywarriorpodcast
#KidneyDisease #Dialysis #KidneyTransplant #BMI #TransplantEligibility #CKD #KidneyWarrior #chronickidneydisease #weight #livingwithobesity