Here for you, wherever you are in your PKD journey
If you’ve come here after reading Nick Ashawasega’s story, you might be feeling recognition, concern, or a quiet sense of “this sounds familiar.” You don’t need to know what to do next. This page is here to help you get oriented.
You’re not alone with PKD
Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is a genetic condition that affects many people across Canada.
- It can appear in childhood or adulthood.
- It can be mild for some and more complex for others.
- It often unfolds slowly, over many years.
PKD is often invisible, long-term, and deeply personal. If parts of Nick’s story stayed with you, that makes sense.
A few basic things to know
- PKD is genetic. You didn't cause it.
- There is no cure yet, but there are ways to manage symptoms and slow progression.
- Many people with PKD live full lives for decades with monitoring and care.
- PKD does not follow the same path for everyone.
You don’t need to absorb all of this at once.
What would help you right now?
→ Learn about PKD: A plain-language overview of what PKD is and what people often experience over time.
→ Find support and resources: Information and events for people living with PKD, caregivers, and families, including education, peer support, and mental health resources.
→ Join our private community, MyPKD.ca: A moderated, private online space to connect with others affected by PKD.
→ Living with PKD: Resources focused on everyday life, including nutrition, lifestyle, and managing symptoms.
→ Donate to PKD research and patient supports: Make a one-time or recurring gift here.
About the PKD Foundation of Canada
The PKD Foundation of Canada supports people affected by PKD across the country. Our focus is simple: to help individuals and families live with PKD today, and to work toward better treatments and a cure for the future.
This space is for you if…
- You have PKD.
- Someone you love has PKD.
- PKD runs in your family and you have questions.
- You look fine on the outside, but you’re carrying a lot on the inside.
You don’t need to explain yourself here.
Take a breath
There’s no right way to respond to PKD. You don’t need to make decisions today. If all you do right now is learn that support exists, that’s enough.
Next steps
Learn about PKD
Find support and resources
Join our private community
Read more stories from people living with PKD
Donate to PKD research and patient supports