Many children benefit from sharing experiences with others in similar situations. That’s why we run children’s programs including the Kidney Kids Camp, as well as a Facebook group for young people.
At Kidney Health Australia, we’re here to provide support and information for parents and children on dialysis treatment.
At Kidney Health Australia, we understand the emotional and physical challenges that families face when impacted by kidney disease. We are here to provide support to both you and your child having dialysis treatment.
Chronic kidney disease can affect children of all ages, from babies through to teenagers. Children and young adults require specialist medical care in a children’s hospital or paediatric renal unit. While many children with kidney disease will eventually get a kidney transplant, dialysis is needed until then.
Dialysis is not easy, even for adults. If you’re wondering how your child might be feeling, research* tells us there are five major themes:
While children undergoing dialysis are more likely to experience impaired growth and poor self-esteem, there are things you can do to help. With the right resources, you can help your child manage their own health, connect and engage with their peer groups, the school environment and take part in recreational activities while still managing their dialysis and treatment responsibilities.
*Children’s experiences of dialysis: a systematic review of qualitative studies by Lidwien Tjaden, Allison Tong, Paul Henning, Jaap Groothoff and Jonathan C Craig (2011).