I'm In Control

In this episode of I'm in Control, I take you through one of the most challenging phases of my life – living with end stage kidney failure. I talk about the shock of discovering my kidney function had dropped to 12%, the emotional strain of hiding this from my family, and how my dad became my lifesaver as a matching donor. I share what it was like managing dialysis, from scheduling treatments around work and university to learning to live with the restrictions it imposed on my life. Despite the struggles, I reflect on the support I had from my partner Aaron and how I maintained control through it all. This episode is a testament to resilience, preparation, and the power of a strong support system.

Timestamps:

00:00 - Discovering my kidney function was at 12%

00:59 - Introduction to kidney disease and living with a silent illness

02:55 - Celebrating my 18th birthday and preparing for my kidney transplant

06:10 - Working part-time and managing the decline in my health

09:09 - My first overseas trip to Bali with low kidney function

10:39 - The emotional weight of hiding my diagnosis from my family

14:05 - Starting dialysis: what it involves and how I managed it

17:10 - Life on dialysis: restrictions, scheduling, and the physical impact

19:28 - Preparing for my kidney transplant: Dad becomes my donor

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I Should be F'n Dead!:

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In this episode of I'm in Control, I share personal stories from my teenage years, detailing my experiences with kidney disease and how it impacted my everyday life. From attending Catholic Ladies College in Eltham to discovering my kidney had only 20% function at 16, I faced major medical challenges, including surgeries and bladder reconstruction. I reflect on the emotional toll of living with a permanent catheter, coping with the stigma of invisible disabilities, and the difficult decisions I had to make at such a young age. This episode captures the resilience and determination I needed to face these obstacles, as well as the importance of not letting a diagnosis define me.

Timestamps:

00:00 - Attending Catholic Ladies College and the impact of primary school bullying

01:17 - Getting my first job at Bakers Delight

02:55 - The significance of getting my learner’s permit

05:35 - Discovering my kidney had only 20% function at age 16

06:44 - Bladder complications and the introduction of a permanent catheter

09:27 - Coping with fashion limitations and invisible disabilities

11:17 - Major bladder reconstruction surgery at 17

15:20 - Navigating year 12 and the decision to take a year off school

18:10 - Meeting my future husband during this challenging time

24:30 - Traveling to Bali with 15% kidney function and the first experience abroad

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In this episode of I'm in Control, I open up about my childhood experience of living with kidney disease. From being diagnosed as a newborn to enduring countless hospital visits, surgeries, and restrictions, I share how these challenges shaped me. More than a story of illness, this is a journey of resilience, finding strength in adversity, and learning not to let a diagnosis define who I am. Join me as I reflect on my childhood, the lessons I’ve learned, and the importance of treating everyone with acceptance and kindness.

00:00 - Childhood diagnosis: Kidney disease

01:17 - Hospital life and early surgeries

02:19 - Coping with childhood limitations

03:56 - The emotional impact of being different

05:42 - Building confidence and breaking out of my shell

10:00 - Finding joy in dancing and singing

12:20 - Lessons in resilience and not letting illness define me

15:01 - Funny stories from childhood

I hope this provides a meaningful glimpse into what it's like growing up with a chronic illness and how I found the strength to persevere.

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In this episode of I'm in Control, I take you through my journey of surviving life-threatening medical conditions, including kidney disease, cancer, and a coma. Through resilience, a positive mindset, and my will to live, I’ve thrived in the face of adversity. Along the way, I share personal tips and experiences that can help you navigate your own challenges. Life is precious, and I’m here to show you how to embrace it, no matter what you’re facing.

00:00 - Introduction: My will to survive

00:46 - Who I am and my background

01:42 - The health challenges I’ve endured

03:04 - Why health issues will never define me

04:06 - My bestselling book and the power of positivity

05:19 - Embracing resilience and inspiration

06:13 - Final thoughts and connection details

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I Should be F'n Dead!:

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