Angela Pickard and Bradley Stewart, Chatham ON | Voices of PKD
"I was born in 1974 and diagnosed with autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease (ARPKD) shortly after birth. My life expectancy was only a few years."
Cheryl Matthews, Port Dover ON | Voices of PKD
"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...
Krista Merkley, ON | Voices of PKD
"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...
Phouvieng Sackda, Toronto ON | Voices of PKD
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.
Maria Parrella-Ilaria, Sault Ste. Marie ON | Voices of PKD
"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."
Courtney Gibson, ON | Patient Story
"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...
Kim Holowatiuk, AB | Voices of PKD
"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."
Joanna Macleod and Kris Woods | Voices of PKD
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...
Luisa Miniaci-Di Leo, Dollard-des-Ormeaux QC | Voices of PKD
"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...
Janice | Voices of PKD
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...