"I was 42 when I found out I had polycystic kidney disease. Until that day, I’d never even heard of PKD. There wasn’t much information available to me at the time, either. What I understood was fairly simple: eventually, I might lose kidney function. Beyond that, I didn’t really know...
"I was first diagnosed in my early 20s. I remember being told that I’d probably be fine, and that something else would likely happen before I ever had to worry about kidney failure. I did some research, but back then, information wasn’t as easy to find. I believed what I...
Meet Phouvieng Sackda, a true inspiration in the PKD community. From navigating dialysis to celebrating the gift of a kidney transplant, Phouv shares his journey with authenticity and hope. He also offers heartfelt advice to his daughters about embracing life while managing their PKD diagnosis.
"My name is Maria, and I am a visual artist and former art therapist/arts educator, currently living in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, with my husband—author and musician Mark—and our two bossy felines. These days, I’d describe myself as persistent, determined, stubborn, and grateful."
"Hi, my name is Courtney Gibson. I’m 28 years old, and this is the story of how a complete stranger gave me a second chance at life. When I was born, doctors told my parents I would never walk, talk, or sit up on my own - and that I likely...
"Living with Stage 5 polycystic kidney disease (PKD), I’ve experienced a huge loss of muscle mass, balance, and strength. The fatigue alone has been incredibly discouraging. I used to be very active—even an athlete—so feeling so limited now has been frustrating and disheartening."
Kris and Joanna first shared their living kidney donation and transplant story with us during our webinar in April 2025, on the topic of organ donation and transplant advocacy in Canada. Joanna is a PKD patient, and Kris is her living kidney donor. Kris is also the provincial director of...
"I was officially placed on the transplant list in January 2024. Things deteriorated quickly. I kept losing weight because I could barely eat; there was no space inside for food. I survived on Boost, Ensure, creamy foods (basically baby food), while dealing with severe acid reflux, vomiting, a metallic taste...
I was diagnosed with polycystic kidney disease (PKD) in 1992 at the age of 18. At the time, my doctor reassured me that my kidneys "just looked funny" and that I had nothing to worry about. Hearing the term kidney disease was shocking, but the doctor’s reaction kept me from...
For those living with polycystic kidney disease (PKD), organ donation is more than an act of generosity - it’s a life-changing miracle. This month, we are honouring some of the most powerful Voices of PKD stories - stories of incredible living kidney donors who made the ultimate gift so that...