Kidney Youth Champions

Luke's Story

“When I was diagnosed with end-stage kidney disease at 23 years old, I imagined leading a normal life. I was the youngest on the kidney ward by decades, and all of my hopes and plans for the future changed. I desperately needed to meet another young person who had been through what I was about to go through, who not only succeeded in their health but also in their life. I didn’t even imagine that someone like that existed.

Since working with Kidney Health Australia as a Youth Champion, I’ve met inspiring people who have it worse and manage to be happier and more active than I am. They set an example that helps me think positively, work on accepting the hand I’ve been dealt and focus on how I can use my experience to help others.

Every person living with kidney disease deserves that experience. Everyone deserves hope.”

Luke Macauley, Kidney Youth Champion