Yesterday, one of our staff team at Kidney Wales, Brett Dowds, sadly passed away.
Brett was a much-loved colleague and friend and a huge part of our kidney community in Wales and across the UK.
He started as a volunteer with Kidney Wales in 2017, then became a Patient Advocate and subsequently the Patient Information & Support Manager. He was also a committed volunteer Peer Supporter for Kidney Care UK’s Young Adult Kidney Group.
Brett was brave, fearless, determined, compassionate and cheeky, with a naughty laugh and a twinkle in his eye. He used his lived experience [of being an expert patient as he would say] to support individuals, patients, and families, and to influence changes to the way that kidney care is provided in Wales. He was driven to make sure patients didn’t face the same obstacles that he had or experience the same challenges. He was tenacious, some would say ‘a force to be reckoned with’ and never afraid to stand his ground for his community.
He was a passionate advocate for home therapies, mental health, and advanced care planning, and he firmly believed in patient empowerment through gaining knowledge and understanding of kidney disease.
He will be missed more than he will ever know, leaving behind a significant legacy that will continue to improve the lives of kidney patients for many years to come.
Our love and thoughts are with Brett’s family and friends, and the numerous patients, families and supporters who were positively impacted by Brett’s work.
The Kidney Wales staff and board members are grieving and respectfully ask for some time to process the heartbreaking news ourselves, as we remain firmly committed to continuing our work as part of the kidney community in Wales.
The team and board wish to pass on our sincerest thanks to everyone who has shared their condolences and kindness also.
Further advice and support
- Cruse Bereavement Support : https://www.cruse.org.uk/
- Samaritains : https://www.samaritans.org/wales/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/
- Mind – information and sign posting on bereavement : https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/guides-to-support-and-services/bereavement/about-bereavement/