Diary of a Kidney Warrior Podcast | Kidney Health Podcast

What happens when kidney disease begins from birth — and your life becomes a journey through dialysis and multiple kidney transplants?

In this episode of Diary of a Kidney Warrior Podcast, Dee Moore speaks with Chef Darren Ferguson, who shares the first part of his remarkable journey with chronic kidney disease and ultimately receiving six kidney transplants.

Darren was diagnosed with chronic kidney disease as a newborn after doctors discovered a blocked valve. His condition was so serious that his family were told he was unlikely to live beyond the age of seven.

After major surgery and starting haemodialysis as a baby, Darren received his first kidney transplant at just five years old.

In Part 1, Darren reflects on growing up with kidney failure, childhood dialysis, trying to balance treatment with school and football, and the freedom that receiving a kidney transplant gave him. He also shares the unforgettable story of meeting Princess Diana while receiving dialysis at Great Ormond Street Hospital.

But Darren’s journey would bring repeated transplant failure and a return to dialysis. At 17, his third kidney transplant — described as a near-perfect match — failed within just eight hours.

Darren speaks candidly about the devastating impact this had on his mental health, including depression and suicidal thoughts, and how, with support and psychological help, he gradually began rebuilding his life minute by minute.

This is a powerful conversation about childhood kidney disease, haemodialysis, kidney transplantation, transplant failure, mental health, resilience and finding a reason to keep going.

🎧 In this episode:

⚠️ Content warning: This episode contains discussion of kidney transplant failure, depression and suicidal thoughts, which some listeners may find distressing.

If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts or is in immediate danger, please seek urgent professional support. In the UK, you can contact NHS 111, attend your nearest A&E, or contact Samaritans free, 24 hours a day, on 116 123.

💚 If Darren’s story resonates with you, please share this episode with someone who may need to hear it.

Follow or subscribe to Diary of a Kidney Warrior Podcast so you don’t miss Part 2 of Darren’s extraordinary kidney transplant journey.

⭐ You can also support the podcast by leaving a rating or review. It helps more people living with kidney disease, their families and those who support them discover these conversations.

Diary of a Kidney Warrior Podcast shares real stories and expert conversations to educate, empower and inspire people living with kidney disease and those who support them.

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 Darren Ferguson

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/darrenfergs

Instagram:

https://instagram.com/darrenjferguson

If you were affected by any of the issues raised in this episode contact:

Kidney Care UK

💻 Website: www.kidneycareuk.org

📧 [email protected]

📞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: [email protected]

Samaritans

Tel: 116 123 (freephone)

[email protected]

Chris,

Freepost RSRB-KKBY-CYJK

PO Box 90 90 Stirling FK8 2SA

samaritans.org

Samaritans are open 24/7 for anyone who needs to talk.

You can visit some Samaritans branches in person.

Samaritans also have a Welsh Language Line on 0808 164 0123 (7pm–11pm every day).

Suicide Prevention UK

For help and support,

available from 6 pm to midnight every day call 0800 689 5652

Childline

Tel: 0800 1111

childline.org.uk

Support for children and young people in the UK, including a free helpline and 1-2-1 online chats with counsellors.

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 #KidneyTransplant #KidneyTransplantation #KidneyFailure #ChronicKidneyDisease #CKD #Dialysis #Haemodialysis #OrganTransplant #TransplantRecipient #TransplantRejection #KidneyHealth #ChildhoodKidneyDisease #MentalHealth #PatientStory #KidneyWarrior #DiaryOfAKidneyWarriorPodcast

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Follow Dee Moore on:

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Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/diaryofakidneywarrior/

Kidney Care UK

•           Website: www.kidneycarekuk.org

•           Email: [email protected]

•           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: [email protected]

How can occupational therapy help someone living with chronic kidney disease? And what support is available when kidney disease, dialysis, fatigue or a hospital stay begins to affect everyday life?

In this episode of Diary of a Kidney Warrior Podcast, Dee Moore is joined by Lisa Ancliffe, Clinical Lead Occupational Therapist for the renal and urology team, to explore the role of occupational therapy (OT) in chronic kidney disease and kidney care.

Occupational therapy isn’t simply about employment. Lisa explains that an “occupation” can be any activity that forms part of someone’s everyday life. Occupational therapists help people identify the barriers preventing them from doing the things that matter to them and work alongside them to find practical, person-centred solutions.

For people living with kidney disease, this can mean helping to reduce the impact that CKD and its treatments have on independence, daily activities, physical health, emotional wellbeing and quality of life.

Dee and Lisa discuss:

• What occupational therapy is and what an occupational therapist does

Lisa explains that occupational therapy takes a holistic approach, looking at the whole person rather than simply their diagnosis.

For someone receiving haemodialysis three times a week, for example, time away from dialysis can be incredibly precious. Occupational therapy within renal care can make use of time spent at the dialysis unit for assessments and interventions, helping to avoid filling someone’s remaining days with even more healthcare appointments.

The conversation also explores when someone might benefit from an occupational therapy assessment. If kidney disease or its treatment is preventing you from doing something you need or want to do, or symptoms such as fatigue are significantly affecting your everyday life, occupational therapy may be able to help.

Lisa’s final message captures the heart of occupational therapy: living, not simply existing.

The aim is to support people to have lives that are meaningful to them, maintain as much independence as possible and continue doing the activities that matter despite the challenges of chronic illness.

🎧 Listen to the full episode to discover more about occupational therapy, chronic kidney disease, dialysis, fatigue, rehabilitation, independence and living well with CKD.

If you think occupational therapy could support you, speak with your kidney care team, GP or other appropriate healthcare professional about the services available in your area.

Diary of a Kidney Warrior Podcast shares real stories and expert conversations to educate, empower and inspire people living with kidney disease and those who support them.

If you found this episode helpful, follow the podcast, leave a review and share it with another kidney patient, family member, carer or healthcare professional.

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

For more information about Occupational Therapy

Royal College of Occupational Therapists

https://www.rcot.co.uk/

Kidney Care UK

💻 Website: www.kidneycareuk.org

📧 [email protected]

📞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: [email protected]

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 #OccupationalTherapy #KidneyDisease #ChronicKidneyDisease #CKD #KidneyHealth #KidneyCare #KidneyPatient #Dialysis #Haemodialysis #RenalCare #Fatigue #Rehabilitation #IndependentLiving #QualityOfLife #LivingWellWithCKD

What does chronic kidney disease have to do with your feet? What should you look out for if you experience swelling, pain or numbness? And when should a problem with your feet be checked by a healthcare professional?

In this episode of Diary of a Kidney Warrior Podcast, Dee Moore is joined by Ovie Azanuwha, Specialist Podiatrist, to explore podiatry, foot health and chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Ovie has worked within the NHS for 20 years and works with people experiencing lower-limb ulcers, including people living with diabetes, vascular conditions and kidney disease.

The conversation begins by explaining the difference between chiropody and podiatry, before exploring some of the foot problems people living with kidney disease may experience and why good preventative foot care matters.

Dee and Ovie discuss:

• The difference between chiropody and podiatry

One of the simplest messages from this episode is also one of the most memorable:

“Brush your hair, brush your teeth, check your feet.”

Ovie encourages people living with kidney disease to make checking their feet part of their everyday routine. Look for changes such as swelling, redness, pain, numbness, pressure marks, changes to the nails or breaks in the skin, and seek professional advice if something concerns you.

The conversation also highlights why numbness deserves attention. Reduced sensation can make it more difficult to notice an injury to the foot, while breaks in the skin can create an opportunity for infection.

Ovie’s overriding message is prevention. Know what is normal for your feet, check them regularly, wear comfortable footwear and don’t ignore changes simply because they appear gradually.

🎧 Listen to the full episode to learn more about podiatry, chronic kidney disease, foot care, swollen feet, numbness, foot pain, nail care and protecting your feet while living with CKD.

This episode provides general information and education and does not replace personalised medical or podiatry advice. If you notice a new or concerning problem with your feet, seek advice from an appropriate healthcare professional.

Diary of a Kidney Warrior Podcast shares real stories and expert conversations to educate, empower and inspire people living with kidney disease and those who support them.

If you found this episode helpful, follow the podcast, leave a review and share it with another kidney patient or someone who could benefit from understanding the importance of foot health.

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 Ovie Azanuwha

Twitter: @OAzanuwha

Instagram: @ovieazanuwha

For more information about Podiatry

The Royal College of Podiatry:

Website: https://rcpod.org.uk/

Kidney Care UK

💻 Website: www.kidneycareuk.org

📧 [email protected]

📞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: [email protected]

Kidney Care UK's Kidney Kitchen

Kidney Kitchen recipes are very carefully analysed and approved by the British Dietetic Association Renal Nutrition Specialist Group (RNG).

https://www.kidneycareuk.org/about-kidney-health/living-kidney-disease/kidney-kitchen/

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 #Podiatry #FootCare #KidneyDisease #ChronicKidneyDisease #CKD #KidneyHealth #KidneyPatient #FootHealth #SwollenFeet #Numbness #Neuropathy #KidneyAwareness #RenalCare #KidneyFailure

Renal Anaemia Specialist Nurse, Sini George,  joins Dee Moore to share about Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) & Anaemia

They discuss:

🔴What is Anaemia?

🔴Why are people living with CKD more likely to have Anaemia?

🔴Treatments and monitoring

🔴Benefits of treatment

🔴What happens if you don’t treat Anaemia?

🔴What happens if you over treat Anaemia?

And more!

For updates and more, follow Dee Moore on:

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

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/diaryofakidneywarrior/

If you were affected by any of the issues raised in this episode contact:

Kidney Care UK

•           Website: www.kidneycarekuk.org

•           Email: [email protected]

•           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: [email protected]

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by Guests on this podcast are those of the Guest and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Dee Moore or Kidney Care UK. Any content provided by our Guests are of their opinion, and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organisation, company, individual or anyone or anything.

What happens when you’ve lived with chronic kidney disease since childhood — and your journey to a kidney transplant takes four attempts?

In this powerful episode of Diary of a Kidney Warrior Podcast, Dee Moore is joined by Andy, who shares his remarkable lived experience of chronic kidney disease (CKD), kidney failure, dialysis and ultimately receiving a kidney transplant through the UK Living Kidney Sharing Scheme.

Andy’s kidney journey began when he was just three or four years old. After becoming seriously unwell during a family holiday, investigations revealed severely damaged kidneys. He was later diagnosed with kidney scarring associated with reflux and grew up under the care of a kidney specialist.

For much of his childhood, however, life felt relatively normal. Andy was active, played football and experienced few symptoms that he recognised as being connected to kidney disease. As he grew older, his relationship with his condition changed — and so did his kidney function.

Years later, a rapid decline brought a stark conversation: it was time to start thinking about dialysis or transplantation.

Andy candidly shares the emotional impact of hearing those words, the fear caused by searching online for answers, and the moment he and his wife decided to stop looking backwards and concentrate on what they could change.

Determined to improve his health and become eligible for a kidney transplant, Andy began losing weight and exercising. Starting at over 16 stone and initially unable to run a kilometre, he went on to lose around four stone and complete the Chester Half Marathon. He describes it as quite literally “running for my life.”

Andy eventually started dialysis in October 2021, but another extraordinary part of his journey was already unfolding.

His wife had been assessed as a potential living kidney donor. Although she could potentially donate directly to Andy, they entered the UK Living Kidney Sharing Scheme in the hope of finding a better-matched kidney.

What followed was an emotional rollercoaster.

Andy and his wife experienced three unsuccessful transplant matches, including disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, illness within a transplant chain and a transplant being cancelled on the morning surgery was due to take place.

Then came a fourth opportunity.

In August 2022, while attending the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, Andy received the call to say another match had been found. On 10 November 2022, after years of waiting, setbacks and uncertainty, Andy finally received his kidney transplant.

In this honest and inspiring conversation, Andy and Dee discuss:

🫘 Growing up with chronic kidney disease

🩺 Kidney scarring, reflux and declining kidney function

📉 Facing kidney failure and the prospect of dialysis

🏃🏽‍♂️ Weight loss, exercise and lifestyle changes with CKD

🧠 The emotional and mental-health impact of kidney disease

💻 Why online health information needs to be approached carefully

💉 Starting dialysis

❤️ Living kidney donation

🔄 How the UK Living Kidney Sharing Scheme works

🏥 The emotional impact of cancelled kidney transplants

🫂 The experience of Andy and his wife as recipient and donor

🎉 Finally receiving a successful kidney transplant

💪 Life after kidney transplantation

❓ The importance of asking questions and building a relationship with your kidney care team

🌱 Staying hopeful while living with chronic kidney disease

Andy’s story is a powerful reminder that kidney disease is not simply about test results, dialysis or transplantation. It is also about resilience, relationships, mental wellbeing, informed decision-making and learning how to advocate for yourself as a patient.

His final message is especially important: work with your healthcare team, ask questions and take an active role in understanding your kidney health.

🎧 Listen now to Andy’s Kidney Warrior Story and hear his journey from childhood kidney disease to dialysis, living kidney donation and a successful kidney transplant.

If this episode helps you, please follow or subscribe to Diary of a Kidney Warrior Podcast, leave a review and share the episode with someone who may benefit from hearing Andy’s story. Sharing these conversations helps more kidney patients, families, carers and supporters find information, encouragement and hope.

Diary of a Kidney Warrior Podcast shares real-life kidney patient stories and expert conversations to educate, empower and inspire people living with kidney disease and those who support them.

Until next time, take care and choose to live.

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 Andy Jones

Instagram: andy_jones_1982

Twitter: @Andy_Jonesy

Kidney Care UK

💻 Website: www.kidneycareuk.org

📧 [email protected]

📞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: [email protected]

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 #ChronicKidneyDisease #CKD #KidneyFailure #KidneyTransplant #KidneyTransplantation #OrganDonation #LivingKidneyDonation #LivingDonor #KidneyDonor #KidneySharingScheme #KidneyPatient #Dialysis #KidneyHealth #RenalHealth #KidneyWarrior #TransplantJourney #TransplantRecipient #OrganTransplant #PatientStory #PatientExperience #PatientAdvocacy #KidneyDiseaseAwareness

Kidney Care Uk’s Policy Director, Fiona Loud joins Dee Moore to share an update about the Cost of living crisis, Home dialysis reimbursement and the impact on the lives of Home Dialysis Patients.

They discuss:

🏠Why home dialysis reimbursement is needed.

🏠 Is home dialysis reimbursement mandatory?

🏠 Is the dialysis reimbursement for both Home Haemodialysis and Peritoneal Dialysis Patients?

🏠 Policies in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

And More!

-

For updates and more, follow Dee Moore on:

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

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/diaryofakidneywarrior/

 Follow Fiona Loud

Twitter: @fionacloud

Email: [email protected]

If you were affected by any of the issues raised in this episode contact:

Kidney Care UK

•           Website: www.kidneycarekuk.org

•           Email: [email protected]

•           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: [email protected]

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by Guests on this podcast are those of the Guest and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Dee Moore or Kidney Care UK. Any content provided by our Guests are of their opinion, and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organisation, company, individual or anyone or anything.

Imagine going from living your normal life to being told within hours that you have end-stage kidney disease and need emergency dialysis.

For chef and jazz vocalist Dione Bullard, that moment marked the beginning of an extraordinary 18-year journey with kidney failure, haemodialysis and, ultimately, kidney transplantation.

In this powerful episode of Diary of a Kidney Warrior Podcast, Dee Moore speaks with Dione about the reality of receiving a life-changing kidney failure diagnosis without warning, adapting to long-term dialysis, experiencing serious dialysis access complications, learning to advocate for himself and finally receiving a deceased donor kidney transplant.

Dione’s Kidney Warrior journey began on 5 January 2005. After travelling, he became unusually lethargic and unwell. His mom sensed something was seriously wrong. When Dione tried to stand and immediately fell, he was taken to hospital.

Within an hour, he had been diagnosed with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and told he needed emergency dialysis.

There had been no gradual preparation. No time to adjust. Life changed immediately.

Dione shares how dialysis became his “new normal” and why, rather than viewing treatment as something purely negative, he gradually came to see it as a life-sustaining necessity.

But his dialysis journey was far from straightforward.

After problems with dialysis access in both arms, infections and multiple temporary catheters, doctors eventually had to create dialysis access in his thigh. With his vascular access options becoming increasingly limited, the need for a kidney transplant became even more urgent.

Dione also discusses why he didn’t pursue transplantation earlier. Misinformation and other patients’ negative experiences initially influenced his perception of kidney transplantation. Eventually, educating himself helped him recognise an important truth: someone else’s transplant experience did not have to become his own.

After approximately 18 years on dialysis, Dione joined the kidney transplant waiting list.

Then came the call.

On 5 May, Dione received the deceased donor kidney that would begin the next chapter of his life.

His transplant recovery brought further challenges, including delayed kidney function and needing to continue dialysis temporarily while his transplanted kidney gradually began working. But throughout his story, one theme remains constant: hope.

🎙️ In this episode:

🫘 Being diagnosed with end-stage kidney disease without warning

Dione’s experience demonstrates why patient education and self-advocacy matter. His message is not about ignoring the difficult realities of kidney failure. It is about understanding your condition, communicating with your healthcare team, paying attention to your body and taking an active role in your own care.

And after everything he has experienced, Dione leaves listeners with a powerful message: live with joy and passion, find the things that sustain you during the difficult days and remember that while you have life, there is room for hope.

🎧 Listen now to Dione’s Kidney Warrior Story.

If this conversation encourages, educates or inspires you, please follow or subscribe to Diary of a Kidney Warrior Podcast, leave a review and share this episode with someone who may need to hear Dione’s story.

Sharing the podcast helps more people living with kidney disease, their families, carers and supporters discover real lived experiences and trusted kidney-health conversations.

Diary of a Kidney Warrior Podcast shares real stories and expert conversations to educate, empower and inspire people living with kidney disease and those who support them.

Medical disclaimer: This podcast shares personal lived experience and general information and is not a substitute for personalised medical advice. Always speak with your kidney care team or an appropriately qualified healthcare professional about your individual circumstances and treatment.

Until next time, take care and choose to live.

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 Dione Bullard

Website: www.dionebullard.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CHEFDIONB

Instagram: @dione_bullard

Twitter: @DIONBULLARD

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@DIONEBULLARD

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📩 To sign up to receive the Kidney Matters Quarterly Magazine Email: [email protected]

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 #ChronicKidneyDisease #CKD #KidneyFailure #EndStageKidneyDisease #ESKD #ESRD #Dialysis #Haemodialysis #KidneyTransplant #KidneyTransplantation #OrganDonation #DeceasedDonor #KidneyDonor #TransplantRecipient #KidneyHealth #RenalHealth #KidneyWarrior #DialysisPatient #TransplantJourney #PatientAdvocacy #KidneyDiseaseAwareness #OrganTransplant

If you’re new to haemodialysis, the thought of having needles inserted into your fistula or graft can be one of the most daunting parts of starting treatment. What happens to the needle holes between dialysis sessions? Why are different needle sizes used? What does it mean when a fistula “blows”? And can patients do anything to make needling easier?

In this listener-led episode of Diary of a Kidney Warrior Podcast, Dee Moore is joined by former haemodialysis nurse Katie Fielding for Part 3 of the Needling for Beginners series, answering real questions from kidney patients about haemodialysis needling, cannulation and vascular access.

Katie breaks down the needling process in accessible language, helping listeners better understand what happens to their fistula or graft before, during and between dialysis sessions.

The conversation explores buttonhole cannulation, rope ladder needling and area puncture, including why the position of dialysis needles matters and the potential consequences of repeatedly needling the same area.

Katie also discusses an experience that can be particularly frightening for people who are new to haemodialysis: a needle infiltration, commonly referred to as a “blow.” She explains what is actually happening and why understanding the procedure can make an unfamiliar or difficult experience feel less frightening.

But this episode isn’t only about what healthcare professionals do.

Katie explains why kidney patients themselves can become experts in their own vascular access. Because you are the one person present every time your fistula or graft is needled, learning what works well for your individual access can help you communicate with your dialysis team and take a more active role in your care.

🎙️ In this episode:

💉 Do fistula and graft needle holes heal between dialysis sessions?

🫘 How does buttonhole cannulation work?

👩‍⚕️ What training should dialysis nurses receive before cannulating a fistula or graft?

🏥 Why can haemodialysis needling protocols differ between renal units?

📋 What is considered good practice in haemodialysis cannulation?

🧠 Do patients really “get used to” dialysis needles?

💉 Why are haemodialysis needles different lengths and sizes?

🪜 What are buttonhole, rope ladder and area puncture needling techniques?

⚠️ Why is repeatedly needling the same area of a fistula discouraged?

🩸 What does it mean when a dialysis needle “blows”?

❤️ Where does a haemodialysis chest line actually sit in relation to the heart?

🚻 How can a patient temporarily disconnect from dialysis to use the toilet?

🔄 What is recirculation or bypass on a haemodialysis machine?

💪 What can patients do to make fistula needling easier?

🧼 Why fistula and graft care between dialysis sessions matters

🗣️ How knowing your own vascular access can help you communicate with your dialysis team

Whether you are preparing to start haemodialysis, newly using an AV fistula or graft, struggling with needle anxiety, or have been receiving dialysis for some time, this episode provides practical information to help you better understand the needling process and become more confident asking questions about your vascular access.

This is Part 3 of the Needling for Beginners series. You can also listen to Part 1 (Episode 67) with Katie Fielding and Part 2 (Episode 90), featuring Dan’s lived experience of haemodialysis needling from a kidney patient’s perspective.

🎧 Listen now and share this episode with another kidney patient who may find haemodialysis needling or vascular access difficult or daunting.

If you find Diary of a Kidney Warrior Podcast helpful, please follow or subscribe, leave a review and share the podcast. Every share helps these conversations reach more people living with kidney disease, their families, carers and supporters.

Diary of a Kidney Warrior Podcast, in partnership with Kidney Care UK, shares real lived experiences and expert conversations to educate, empower and inspire people living with kidney disease and those who support them.

Medical disclaimer: This podcast provides general information and lived experience and is not a substitute for personalised medical advice. Vascular access and haemodialysis practices can vary according to the individual and renal unit. Always speak with your kidney care team about your own dialysis treatment and vascular access.

Until next time, take care and choose to live.

Current Guidelines on the VASBI Website

VASBI Position Statement on delivery of dialysis access services in the COVID 19 Climate

https://www.vasbi.org.uk/media/resources/files/VASBI_Position_Statement_on_delivery_of_dialysis_access_services_PgmUuAz.pdf

Clinical Practice Guideline Vascular Access For Haemodialysis

https://www.vasbi.org.uk/static/uploads/resources/vascular-access_current_guidlines.pdf

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📩 To sign up to receive the Kidney Matters Quarterly Magazine Email: [email protected]

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.

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What is fistula needling really like from a kidney patient’s perspective?

In Part 2 of the Needling for Beginners series, Dee Moore is joined by kidney patient Dan Waters, who shares his lived experience of polycystic kidney disease (PKD), haemodialysis, fistula needling and kidney transplantation.

Dan’s kidney journey began long before dialysis. His mother was diagnosed with polycystic kidney disease when he was a child, and at the age of 17, Dan discovered that he had inherited PKD too.

For many years, kidney disease had relatively little impact on his everyday life. But as his kidney function declined, increasing fatigue, kidney infections and pain began to take their toll. Eventually, Dan had to prepare for kidney replacement therapy and underwent surgery to create an arteriovenous fistula for haemodialysis.

Dan takes us inside his experience of starting dialysis — including seeing the dialysis needles for the first time — and explains how becoming actively involved in his own treatment helped him regain a sense of control.

In this episode, Dee and Dan discuss:

• Growing up with a family history of polycystic kidney disease (PKD)

Dan’s message is particularly powerful for anyone approaching haemodialysis who feels nervous about fistula needling. Rather than allowing dialysis to simply happen to him, he learned about the process, participated in his treatment and developed an understanding of his own fistula.

Whether you are preparing to start haemodialysis, already dialysing with an AV fistula, supporting someone living with kidney failure, or simply want to understand the patient experience of dialysis and kidney transplantation, this conversation offers practical lived-experience insight and encouragement.

🎧 Listen now and share this episode with someone who may find Dan’s experience helpful.

Medical disclaimer: This podcast shares lived experience for information and awareness and should not replace personalised medical advice. Always speak to your kidney care team about your own dialysis access, fistula, needling technique, treatment or transplant care.

Follow Diary of a Kidney Warrior Podcast for more real-life kidney patient stories and expert conversations designed to educate, empower and inspire people living with kidney disease and those who support them.

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Kidney Care UK

💻 Website: www.kidneycareuk.org

📧 [email protected]

📞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: [email protected]

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 #KidneyHealth #Dialysis #Haemodialysis #Hemodialysis #Fistula #AVFistula #FistulaNeedling #DialysisNeedles #ButtonholeNeedling #KidneyFailure #PolycysticKidneyDisease #PKD #KidneyTransplant #OrganTransplant #KidneyPatient #ChronicKidneyDisease #CKD