Lynsey’s Story

“The first-time kidney disease was bought to my attention was in 1997 when my dad died. It was quite a shock to see renal failure on his death certificate, I had no idea. Sadly, my mum died 3 months later.

They both had diabetes, so there was a very good chance I would get it too. It was when I was 14, I was diagnosed and put straight onto insulin. Unfortunately for me diabetes came with complications, chronic kidney disease being one of them. This is caused by high sugar levels damaging the blood vessels in the kidneys. I was diagnosed with CKD about 15 years ago and put under the care of a nephrologist. Managing my blood pressure has been a constant battle and this has also caused damage to my kidneys.

Over the years I have been steadily declining, but about a year ago I had a much quicker decline and found myself in stage 4. My consultant wanted to perform a biopsy, but I really wasn’t keen. So, a scan was performed instead, which confirmed the damage was from the diabetes. Conversations then started about dialysis and transplants. It was quite a shock. I was told I would be on dialysis within 2 years. For me, fatigue is the hardest symptom to manage, followed by potassium levels, but management of my potassium is achievable with dietary changes.

Despite these challenges I went back to college to study accountancy. I found it very tiring and would often fall asleep as soon as I got home. However, I persevered and 3 years later I was a qualified bookkeeper. I moved to Llandudno in September 2024 and found out about Kidney Wales through social media. I have now become an ambassador for Kidney Wales.”

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