Peaks for PKD Blog
September 04, 2024

Raising Awareness About PKD | Peaks for PKD

One of the primary reasons that Eric Hampel is undertaking the challenge of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro this October is to use his climb as a platform to raise awareness about polycystic kidney disease (PKD).

In honour of PKD Awareness Day, Eric is sharing the most important things he wants others to know about PKD.

It Can Lead to Kidney Failure

Many people with PKD eventually experience kidney failure, requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant.

"While it's often a slow progression over many years, the lack of a cure means that a PKD diagnosis often feels like an inevitable march towards kidney failure. This is why I'm raising funds to find a cure for PKD - to take away the inevitability of a PKD diagnosis."

It’s a Genetic Disorder

PKD is inherited, meaning it runs in families and has a 50% chance of being passed on to the next generation.

"PKD is not a choice, and its not because someone is living an unhealthy lifestyle. It can impact anyone with a family history of the disease. Unfortunately, because of its genetic nature, it often reduces the pool of eligible living kidney donors because many of those closest to you may also have the disease."

Diet and Lifestyle Matter

Managing PKD often involves careful attention to diet, fluid intake, and overall lifestyle.

"I cannot agree more. While the first few years after my diagnosis I was in denial, and didn't try to manage my lifestyle due to PKD, I've been much more focused on staying healthy since my mid-twenties. Diet, especially salt intake - as well as drinking lots of water - have been two major and longstanding focus areas for me."

Living Donors are Heroes

The generosity of living organ donors can be life-changing for people with PKD who need transplants.

"Living donors and the families of deceased donors are absolute heroes, and the most selfless people I can think of. If it wasn't for organ donors, both my mother and aunt would still be on dialysis, with all the challenges that brings. Sue Ward, who selflessly provided a living donation to my mom, is an inspiration and a hero."

Research is Crucial

Continued research is essential to finding better treatments and ultimately a cure for PKD.

"Compared to when my grandfather was diagnosed with PKD about 50 years ago, the understanding and management of PKD has come so far. The fact there are treatments and ongoing research into PKD is a huge improvement, and gives people like me hope that one day there will be a cure."

Hope is Important

Despite the challenges, many people with PKD find hope in the support of the PKD community, advances in research, and the possibility of new treatments.

"The massive improvements in research, awareness, and the fact there are now even treatments available gives us hope. However, this is all about slowing progression, and management. Ultimately what is needed is a cure. That is why I am climbing Kilimanjaro - to raise funds and awareness, with the ultimate goal of a cure."

If you'd like to help Eric achieve his dream, please consider donating to his PKD fundraiser by clicking the button below.

 

Support PKD research and patients

 

2026 update: PKD patient Eric Hampel is taking on the U.K. National Three Peaks Challenge in June 2026, climbing the highest mountains in Scotland, England, and Wales within 24 hours to raise funds and awareness for polycystic kidney disease (PKD). Inspired by his family’s experience with PKD and his own diagnosis, Eric is using his training and the challenge itself to support PKD research and patient programs in Canada and the U.K. Through regular training updates, he’s sharing the reality of preparing for a demanding endurance challenge while fundraising toward a future without PKD. This is Eric’s second climbing challenge to benefit people affected by PKD; in October 2024 he successfully summited Mt. Kilimanjaro.

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