In this powerful episode of Diary of a Kidney Warrior Podcast, Dee sits down with Louise, a kidney warrior whose journey with IgA nephropathy spans over 30 years – from diagnosis in her early 20s, to pregnancy complications and heartbreaking baby loss, to finally receiving her life-changing kidney transplant, lovingly named “Katie the Kidney.”

Louise shares how her kidney disease was first discovered during pregnancy, the devastating loss of her son, and how for decades she coped by “putting everything in a box” and carrying on with life. She talks about living abroad with only 22% kidney function, unknowingly walking 20K with undiagnosed angina, and why kidney disease can be such a silent condition.

In an emotional and hope-filled conversation, Louise describes the moment she received “the call” for transplant, watching her donor kidney arrive in a cooler from Edinburgh, and being wheeled to theatre with Katie the Kidney on the end of her bed. She also opens up about the emotional healing that came with kidney failure – exploring trapped emotions, trauma, faith, and learning to truly take responsibility for her health and wellbeing.

If you’re newly diagnosed, living with chronic kidney disease (CKD), resisting the idea of dialysis or transplant, or struggling emotionally with your diagnosis, this episode will give you hope, validation and practical encouragement.

In this episode, we discuss:

•Louise’s first signs of kidney disease and IgA nephropathy diagnosis

•Pregnancy, kidney disease and the loss of her baby son

•Living 30+ years with CKD and feeling “fine” at 22% kidney function

•Discovering angina during transplant workup

•Getting the call and meeting “Katie the Kidney”

•How transplant changed her energy, skin, and brain fog

•The emotional side of kidney disease: grief, trauma, “putting it in a box”

•Why acknowledging your diagnosis and caring for your mental health is essential

•Louise’s advice for anyone newly diagnosed or scared of dialysis / transplant

You are not alone. Kidney disease is not the end – it’s part of your story, not your identity.

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💬 Connect with Louise:

Facebook: facebook.com/shinewithlou

Instagram: @iamlouisefletcher

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iamlouisefletcher?_r=1&_t=ZN-91TqTzwku9u

Kidney Care UK

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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.

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