"Kidney disease took my identity, It took my friends, it took my family, it took my career."
"The whole trajectory of my life changed. At best, all I can hope for is a transplant - sadly there is no cure."
Hayley was 14 weeks pregnant, just 27 years old. Her whole life, full of big dreams and the excitement of motherhood, lay ahead of her. But diagnosed with chronic kidney disease, she felt lost and alone. She didn’t know who she was anymore. And she didn’t know how she could possibly be the mum she’d hoped to be.
Hayley’s words are a poignant reminder of everything that kidney disease takes away.
Sadly, Hayley’s experience is not uncommon.
Ninety per cent of kidney function can be lost before any symptoms are present. Often, there are no warning signs. Right now, more than 2 million Australians have signs of kidney disease - and they may suddenly find themselves in desperate need of support.
After finding Kidney Health Australia through a social media post, Hayley says the difference in her life has been amazing.
"When you feel alone and isolated, you long for connection. That's what Kidney Health Australia gave me. They gave me an amazing platform to share my story, to be vulnerable, be raw, to ask questions, to get information, to find connection."
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