Join our next online PKD Mind Matters Chat on Tuesday, July 30, 2024 at 7pm EDT.
Many people of all genders with PKD experience increased body consciousness and negative body image, due to changes in their body size from enlarged kidneys.
Kim Holowatiuk shared her own personal experience with altered body image in her recent Voices of PKD story.
"...[H]aving the equivalent of 4½ footballs inside your abdomen changes your shape, and my abdomen sticks out quite a bit now.
"I am SO very self-conscious, and feel very embarrassed about how I look. I worry that I will be judged by others, and do not socialize as much as I used to, since I am just not comfortable."
Is this something you can relate to?
Would you like to talk with others going through the same thing?
Our next PKD Mind Matters Chat will be a conversation about coping with body image when you have PKD. Two women from our PKD community who have experienced significant body changes due to PKD will be joining us to talk about issues such as:
- Visible abdominal swelling due to enlarged organs
- Clothing fit issues
- Chronic discomfort and pain from abdominal swelling
- Restricted physical activity
- Weight gain misconceptions (e.g. people asking if you are pregnant)
- Reduced self-esteem
- Social withdrawal
All are welcome. Sign up for this friendly, confidential social hour today!
The purpose of our PKD Mind Matters chats is to find connection within our community, and support each other. Can't wait to see you there!
Note that our confidential PKD Mind Matters chats are different from our educational webinars. There's no formal speaker, and the event will not be recorded or available for viewing afterwards, if you can’t attend the live event.