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.

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 💻 Website https://slart.substack.com  

Steve's solo exhibition “Memento Vivere”  September 6-18th 

Memento Vivere Exhibition Link https://cryptlondon.art 

Kidney Care Uk

💻 Website: www.kidneycarekuk.org

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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.