Diary of a Kidney Warrior Podcast | Living with Kidney Disease

Episode 142: Menopause and Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) | Breaking the Silence:

In Episode 142 of Diary of a Kidney Warrior Podcast, host Dee Moore sits down with Dr. Vikram Talaulikar—menopause specialist and Associate Professor in Women’s Health—to demystify menopause for people living with chronic kidney disease (CKD).
 
If you’ve ever wondered whether changing periods, brain fog, poor sleep, hot flushes, joint aches or low mood are “just stress,” menopause, or CKD—this conversation is for you. We explore the menopause transition (perimenopause → menopause → postmenopause), how symptoms can overlap with CKD, and what practical steps you can take right now.
 
You’ll hear about:
•Perimenopause vs. menopause—what’s normal, what to track, and why one blood test often doesn’t tell the full story.
•Lifestyle strategies that genuinely help (sleep hygiene, movement, nutrition, supplements to discuss with your team).
•Non-hormonal options (including CBT and certain medications) and when they may be considered.
•HRT in CKD—safer formulations, delivery routes, and the “lowest effective dose” principle to discuss with your clinicians.
•Bone and heart health during and after the transition—and what to raise at your next appointment.
•Why timely support matters and how to build a joined-up plan with your GP, kidney team, or menopause specialist.
 
This episode is compassionate, practical, and designed to help you advocate for yourself. We’re also preparing a listener-led Q&A with Dr. Talaulikar—send us your questions! Submission details are in the show notes.
 
Perfect for:
Women with CKD (or their supporters) navigating menopause, perimenopause, postmenopause; anyone curious about evidence-based options—including HRT—in the context of kidney health.
 
 
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If this helped you, follow the show, leave a review, and share with a fellow Kidney Warrior. Your support helps more people find life-changing information.
 
 
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Follow Dr. Vikram Talaulikar
 
🐦Twitter (X) @VikramSinai
👨🏽‍⚕️Linked in - Vikram Sinai Talaulikar
📸Instagram:- menopausecliniclondon, vikramsinaitalaulikar
📘Facebook: Menopause Clinic London
 
 
Kidney Care UK
 
•           Website: www.kidneycarekuk.org
•           Email: 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.

Episode 141: Beyond the GP: Making Primary Care Work for Kidney Health, Part 2

How do you know when your kidney health needs more than GP care—and how can you make sure you’re getting the right tests, referrals, and treatment?
 
In this powerful follow-up to Episode 139, host Dee Moore is once again joined by Dr. Kristin Veighey for Part 2 of “Beyond the GP: Making Primary Care Work for Kidney Health.” Together, they dive deeper into the realities of managing chronic kidney disease (CKD) in the primary care setting, giving patients the tools to advocate for themselves and get the support they need.
 
This episode answers the questions so many patients ask but rarely get clear guidance on:
 
✅ Know your risk factors – from diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease to family history and medications that can affect kidney function.
✅ Why urine tests matter – and why they often reveal problems years before blood tests.
✅ Diabetes and CKD – the number one cause of kidney disease in the UK, and why tighter blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose targets are essential.
✅ When to push for referral – understanding the Kidney Failure Risk Equation (KFRE), what “CKD stage 4 or 5” really means, and why you don’t have to wait until dialysis is on the table.
✅ The role of the multidisciplinary team – how pharmacists, nurses, and other professionals in primary care can help streamline your care and reduce unnecessary appointments.
✅ Targets that protect your kidneys – the real numbers you should be aiming for with blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar.
 
🎯 Whether you’re newly diagnosed or already living with CKD, this episode gives you actionable strategies to protect your kidneys, prevent decline, and get the care you deserve.
 
Dr. Veighey also stresses the importance of knowing your numbers, asking the right questions, and never accepting “it’s fine” without evidence. This is about empowerment, early detection, and personalised care—because the earlier CKD is recognised, the better your long-term outcomes.
 
🔑 Key Takeaway: Your kidneys can’t wait. Urine tests, regular monitoring, and proactive conversations with your GP or pharmacist can make the difference between stability and progression to dialysis.
 
🎧 Tune in now to Episode 141 of the Diary of a Kidney Warrior Podcast to learn how to take control of your kidney health journey, advocate for yourself, and make primary care work for you.
 
👉🏽👉 Don’t miss Part 1 (Episode 139) if you haven’t already—where we explored the foundations of primary care, misconceptions, and the hidden roles of the wider healthcare team.
 
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Kidney Care UK
#BloodyAmazingKidneys campaign
https://kidneycareuk.org/news-from-kidney-care-uk/bloodyamazingkidneys/
 
Kidney Health Checker
 
https://kidneycareuk.org/kidney-health-checker/
 
•           Website: www.kidneycarekuk.org
•           Email: info@kidneycareuk.org
•           Tel: 01420 541 424
•           Facebook: www.facebook.com/kidneycareuk.org
•           Instagram: @kidneycareuk
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•           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.
 

Episode 140: Faith, Friendship & a Fight for Life: Lois’s Kidney Warrior Story

In this deeply moving episode of Diary of a Kidney Warrior, host Dee sits down with the inspiring Lois, whose journey with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is a powerful testament to resilience, community, and faith.
 
Diagnosed with PKD at a young age following her father’s diagnosis, Lois managed her health for decades with routine check-ups—until an unexpected and rapid decline in kidney function in her 50s changed everything. Faced with the emotional aftermath of her father’s passing and her own urgent health crisis, Lois had to navigate the daunting realities of transplant options during the isolating period of the Covid-19 pandemic.
 
Through emotional highs and lows, practical challenges, and spiritual growth, Lois’s story is anchored by unwavering support from loved ones, especially her living donor and real-life superhero, Josh. From guilt and grief to hope and healing, this episode is a reminder of the strength found in vulnerability, the power of support networks, and the lifesaving gift of living organ donation.
 
💚 Whether you’re living with kidney disease, supporting someone who is, or simply in need of inspiration—this episode will move and motivate you.
 
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Lois and Josh's Interview on STV
 
https://news.stv.tv/west-central/dont-take-your-kidneys-for-granted-womans-plea-after-living-donor-transplant-saved-her-life
 
Kidney Care UK
 
•           Website: www.kidneycarekuk.org
•           Email: info@kidneycareuk.org
•           Tel: 01420 541 424
•           Facebook: www.facebook.com/kidneycareuk.org
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•           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.
 
 
 

GX Awards 2025: We Won Last Year – Let’s Do It Again! I Need Your Vote! 💚🏆

Hi Kidney Warriors and friends! Dee Moore here with some exciting news!
The Diary of a Kidney Warrior Podcast has been nominated once again for the GX Award for Best TV Programme / Podcast! 🎉
 
We won this award last year thanks to your incredible support – and now I need your help to bring it home again.
 
🗳️ Here’s how to vote:
➡️ Go to: https://www.thegxawards.com
➡️ Scroll to Section 28 – Best TV Programme / Podcast
✅ Select: Diary of a Kidney Warrior Podcast – Dee Moore
 
📅 Voting closes Saturday 23rd August 2025
📌 Don’t forget to like, comment, share, and SUBSCRIBE for more Kidney Warrior inspiration!
 
Thank you for your continued support. Let’s win this together – again! 💚
 
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Kidney Care UK
 
•           Website: www.kidneycarekuk.org
•           Email: 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.
 
 
 
#KidneyWarriorStrong #GXAwards2025 #VoteNow #PodcastNominee #DeeMoore #ChronicIllnessAwareness

Episode 139: Beyond the GP: Making Primary Care Work for Kidney Health, with Dr. Kristin. Part 1

What does effective kidney care look like in the primary care setting—and who’s really involved beyond your GP? In this first of a special two-part series, host Dee Moore is joined by Dr. Kristin Veighey to explore the crucial yet often misunderstood role of primary care in managing chronic kidney disease (CKD).
 
This episode takes you beyond the GP, highlighting the power of the multidisciplinary team—including specialist nurses, pharmacists, health coaches, social prescribers, and mental health professionals—and how each plays a unique role in supporting kidney health.
 
Together, they discuss:
• The definition and purpose of primary care vs. secondary care
• Why CKD is often overlooked or mismanaged in primary care settings
• The impact of legacy thinking, outdated guidelines, and unclear care pathways
• How to navigate the system, understand who does what, and advocate for yourself
• The importance of tracking your eGFR, blood pressure, and asking the right questions during health checks
 
This empowering episode is designed to help you take control of your kidney health journey by understanding your rights, responsibilities, and the full range of support available to you.
 
🗣️ Stay tuned for Part 2, where the conversation continues with more actionable insights and strategies to ensure you receive timely, personalised, and coordinated CKD care.
 
🎧 Listen now to start building the knowledge and confidence to make primary care work for you.
 
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Kidney Care UK
 
•           Website: www.kidneycarekuk.org
•           Email: 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.
 

Episode 138: Chronic Kidney Disease & Dialysis: Ravi’s Story of Survival, Strength and Self-Care

Join us for an inspiring episode of the Diary of a Kidney Warrior Podcast as we sit down with Ravi—a fellow Kidney Warrior whose story is one of courage, connection, and unshakeable will. From his unexpected diagnosis of Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) to life on dialysis, Ravi opens up about the challenges and triumphs that have shaped his journey.
 
What began as a routine post-holiday health concern quickly became a life-altering revelation. Ravi walks us through the early warning signs, the shock of diagnosis, and the complexities of seeking care amid a global pandemic. As dialysis buddies turned friends, Ravi and our host share a powerful camaraderie that highlights the strength found in community.
 
In this candid conversation, Ravi speaks openly about the physical, mental, and emotional toll of CKD—detailing side effects, collapsing from poor health, and the resilience needed to push through. Balancing a demanding career in IT, he reveals how he copes with the daily realities of dialysis and the hope of an eventual transplant.
 
Whether you’re newly diagnosed or supporting someone with CKD, Ravi’s insights offer encouragement, practical advice, and heartfelt wisdom. He champions the importance of early detection, mental well-being, and finding purpose amidst the struggle.
 
💬 “No matter what you’re facing, don’t give up. Find your reason to fight.” – Ravi
 
🎙️ Tune in and be reminded of the strength that unites all Kidney Warriors. This episode is a moving tribute to perseverance, hope, and the power of the human spirit.
 
Follow Diary of a Kidney Warrior:
 
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Follow Ravi Raju
 
https://www.facebook.com/ravi.d.raju
 
 
Kidney Care UK
 
•           Website: www.kidneycarekuk.org
•           Email: 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.
 

Episode 137: The Art of Resilience: How Steve Turned Kidney Disease Into Creative Power

From Diagnosis to Artivism: Steve’s Extraordinary Kidney Warrior Journey
 
In this powerful episode of Diary of a Kidney Warrior Podcast, Dee sits down with Steve — a passionate creative whose life was forever changed by an unexpected diagnosis of chronic kidney disease (CKD).
 
At just 30% kidney function and no warning signs, Steve’s diagnosis came as a shock. He takes us through the moment his world shifted: a sudden phone call that catapulted him into the reality of dialysis. What follows is a deeply human story of resilience — navigating peritoneal dialysis, transitioning to haemodialysis, and balancing the demands of treatment with the challenges of self-employment in web design.
 
But this is no ordinary journey.
 
Steve opens up about receiving his first kidney transplant, the hope it brought, and the heartbreak when things took a turn — sending him back to dialysis and confronting the fragility of life with CKD. Throughout it all, he emphasises the critical importance of self-advocacy in the healthcare system, offering insights that every patient or caregiver needs to hear.
 
What truly sets Steve apart is how he channels pain into purpose. Through painting, he found not just therapy, but a voice — using art as activism to raise awareness about kidney disease. His work, featured in exhibitions supporting Kidney Care UK, is raw, reflective, and at times, joyfully humorous — a visual diary of his fight and spirit.
 
The episode builds to a beautiful full-circle moment as Steve shares the emotional story of receiving a second transplant — this time from his brother — and the freedom that followed. His message is clear: creativity can be healing, storytelling is powerful, and no one walking this journey is alone.
 
If you’re living with CKD, supporting a loved one, or simply need a reminder of the strength of the human spirit, this episode will leave you inspired, informed, and deeply moved.
 
Follow Diary of a Kidney Warrior:
 
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📘Facebook: www.facebook.com/diaryofakidneywarrior 
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🎵Tik Tok: @diaryofakidneywarrior 
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Follow Steve Light
📸 Instagram https://instagram.com/slart.me 
 💻 Website https://slart.substack.com  
 
Steve's solo exhibition “Memento Vivere”  September 6-18th Crypt Gallery,St Pancras New ChurchEuston Rd.,London NW1 2BAAll ticket proceeds and a percentage of art sales go to Kidney Care UK.
Memento Vivere Exhibition Link https://cryptlondon.art 
 
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
 
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.

Episode 136: Living with Chronic Kidney Disease: Christy’s Inspiring 20 Year Journey.

I am sad to share that since the recording of this interview Christy has passed away.Christy was unapologetically herself — open, honest, and straight-talking. She told it as it was, with energy, clarity, and courage. From the very first message she sent me — “So, when are we going to be on each other’s podcasts?” — her personality shone through. She was direct, engaged, and fully present, and that stayed true throughout our conversation.I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to share space with Christy and to be interviewed on her podcast. My thoughts are with Christy's family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.Rest in peace, Christy.
 
Dee 🙏🏽
 
 
 
 
In this powerful and deeply personal episode of Diary of a Kidney Warrior Podcast, we meet Christy—an extraordinary kidney warrior whose story of resilience will inspire anyone facing life’s toughest battles.
 
Christy takes us back to 2006, when a life-threatening crisis landed her in a coma, leading to kidney failure caused by septicaemia and peritonitis. What followed was nearly two decades of living with chronic kidney disease (CKD)—a journey marked by dialysis as a young adult, the heartbreak of a failed transplant, and the constant balancing act of managing additional health complications.
 
But Christy’s story doesn’t stop at survival. She shares how she transformed her adversity into advocacy, building a vibrant online community and launching her own podcast, Chronically Christy, to connect with and uplift other kidney patients.
 
With honesty and wisdom, Christy speaks about:
💪 The importance of self-advocacy in navigating CKD
🧡 How her family and husband became pillars of support
🎧 Using podcasting and blogging to foster community and raise awareness
📚 Empowering advice for newly diagnosed CKD patients
 
Tune in for an episode filled with courage, insights, and hope—a true testament to the power of resilience and human spirit.
 
Follow Diary of a Kidney Warrior:
 
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📘Facebook: www.facebook.com/diaryofakidneywarrior 
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🎵Tik Tok: @diaryofakidneywarrior 
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🔵 BlueSky: @diaryofakidneyw.bsky.social
 
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Follow Christy Millar
 
🐦Twitter (X) https://x.com/ChristyMillarUK
Website: https://chronicallychristy.captivate.fm/episodes/7#showEpisodes
📸Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chronicallychristy/
 
Kidney Care UK
 
•           Website: www.kidneycarekuk.org
•           Email: 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.
 
 
 

Episode 135: Navigating Work & Well-being: Occupational Health for Kidney Patients with Dr. Jacquie

Struggling to balance work and kidney disease? You’re not alone — and this episode is your essential guide to thriving professionally and medically. We’re joined by Dr. Jacquie, a leading expert in occupational health, to explore the critical intersection of employment, rights, and wellbeing for people living with chronic kidney disease (CKD).
 
👉🏽👉 In this powerful and informative episode, we break down:
 
✅ What occupational health really means for kidney patients
✅ The 3 key stages of employment: pre-employment, during work, and ill health retirement
✅ Your rights under the Equality Act 2010, Health and Safety at Work Act, and Employment Rights Act 1996
✅ Whether you must disclose your condition to employers — and what protections exist if you do
✅ High-risk job types for kidney patients and how to identify workplace hazards
✅ What reasonable adjustments look like and how to request them
✅ How to navigate sickness absence, redeployment, and ill health retirement — including tiered pension options and documentation tips
✅ The role of support systems: from union reps, Kidney Care UK, to your renal medical team
 
🎯 Whether you’re job-hunting, currently working, or considering retirement due to ill health, this episode delivers clear, actionable advice to help you make informed choices while protecting your health and career.
 
Follow Diary of a Kidney Warrior:
 
📸Instagram: www.instagram.com/diaryofakidneywarrior 
📘Facebook: www.facebook.com/diaryofakidneywarrior 
🐦Twitter: 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
 
Kidney Care UK
 
•           Website: www.kidneycarekuk.org
•           Email: info@kidneycareuk.org
•           Tel: 01420 541 424
•           Facebook: www.facebook.com/kidneycareuk.org
•           Instagram: @kidneycareuk
•           YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeqQTdAsEzXphqjHVtcTD-A
 
To sign up to receive the Kidney Matters Quarterly Magazine Email: info@kidneycareuk.org
To order a wrist band visit:
https://www.charitycardshop.com/kidneycareuk/category/6
 
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.
 

Episode 134: A Warrior’s Journey: Councillor Hilaria’s Fight for Life, Hope, and Advocacy

In this deeply moving episode of The Diary of a Kidney Warrior Podcast, Dee sits down with the inspirational Councillor Hilaria as she shares her extraordinary journey through chronic kidney disease, multiple organ failures, and ultimately, a life-saving transplant. Her story is one of unimaginable adversity—from being diagnosed during pregnancy to surviving septicaemia, cardiac arrest, and a coma. Yet, through it all, Councillor Hilaria never gave up.
 
She candidly recounts her years on both peritoneal and haemodialysis, the emotional toll of waiting a decade for a transplant, and the strength she drew from her loving husband, children and dedicated healthcare team. When the call finally came, it wasn’t just a kidney—it was a second chance at life. Councillor Hilaria reflects on the profound gratitude she feels for her donor’s family and how this experience reignited her faith and purpose.
 
Now an elected official and powerful advocate for kidney health and organ donation, Councillor Hilaria’s story is a beacon of resilience, transformation, and service. Whether you’re a kidney warrior, caregiver, or ally, this episode offers hope, strength, and a reminder that even in our darkest moments, there is light ahead.
 
Follow Diary of a Kidney Warrior:
 
📸Instagram: www.instagram.com/diaryofakidneywarrior 
📘Facebook: www.facebook.com/diaryofakidneywarrior 
🐦Twitter: 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 the Podcast on WhatsApp
Stay updated with new episodes and exclusive content!
👉 Join here: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaO3ms71iUxipp1eeh2r
 
Follow Councillor Hilaria Owusu
 
Twitter (X): @asumuhilaria
Instagram: @hilariaasumuofficial
Facebook: @hilariaasumu
Twitter (X): @wshbmekidneys
 
If you were affected by any of the issues raised in this episode contact:
 
Miscarriage Association
Website: https://www.miscarriageassociation.org.uk/
Helpline: 01924 200 799
Email: info@miscarriageassociation.org.uk
 
Kidney Care UK
 
•           Website: www.kidneycarekuk.org
•           Email: info@kidneycareuk.org
•           Tel: 01420 541 424
•           Facebook: www.facebook.com/kidneycareuk.org
•           Instagram: @kidneycareuk
•           YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeqQTdAsEzXphqjHVtcTD-A
 
To sign up to receive the Kidney Matters Quarterly Magazine Email: info@kidneycareuk.org
To order a wrist band visit:
https://www.charitycardshop.com/kidneycareuk/category/6
 
Follow 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
 
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.