​My kidney problems began in my teenage years with a kidney infection, which led to recurring issues in my twenties. A kidney biopsy revealed that I had IgA Nephropathy, an autoimmune disease characterized by the build-up of Iga protein in the kidneys (also known as Berger disease) resulting in inflammation and damage.

In 2000, my kidneys failed, and I started peritoneal dialysis. This treatment required me to perform dialysis four times a day for about 40 minutes each time through a tube in my abdomen. At that time, my children were just 2 and 4 years old, so I chose this home-based option to remain present for my family and minimize travel.

After a year on dialysis, I experienced a life-changing moment. During a church event where I shared my kidney story and how my faith provided me with strength and hope, I met Paige. She offered to be tested as a potential live kidney donor. Following extensive testing and consultations with doctors, specialists, and surgeons, it was determined that Paige was an excellent match and was willing to donate one of her kidneys to me.

In December 2001, both Paige and I underwent surgery. Paige donated one of her kidneys to me, allowing me to receive a transplant. After spending some time in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and recovering in the hospital, I was finally able to live with my new kidney. This transplant marked a significant improvement in my health

The difference in how I felt was immediate. The fatigue and limitations that came with being on dialysis were lifted, and I could return to a more normal life. Grateful for the incredible gift of a kidney from Paige, I made it my priority to take care of this precious organ.

Since receiving the transplant, I have been fortunate enough to direct and run a gallery, work full-time as a potter, and eventually train as a landscaper. Additionally, I became an active member of my community by volunteering as a firefighter for five years and working in pest control.

However, in 2022, I faced another challenge when my kidney function began to decline. Unfortunately, the IgA nephropathy had returned and affected my transplanted kidney. As a result, I found myself needing to start dialysis again to maintain my health. In November 2024, I began haemodialysis, which involves three 4-hour sessions each week connected to a dialysis machine in Auckland. This requires a lot of travel and numerous hospital appointments.

I am extremely grateful for the 23 years of health from my first kidney transplant, and  I am forever grateful to Paige for providing me  the gift of life and I remain hopeful about being accepted onto the transplant waiting list again with the possibility of receiving a second transplant.

I am currently balancing work with my dialysis treatments and hospital visits, which has led to chronic fatigue. As a result, I can no longer work full-time, and my income has significantly decreased during this transition period. 

I have faced challenges recieving financial support so Pippa decided to start a fundraising campaign. She has created a collection of unique hand screen-printed t-shirts for both adults and children. These shirts are available exclusively on our website. The proceeds from the sales will support me during this difficult time, and a percentage will also be donated to the kidney society.

Thank you for reading my Kidney Journey story and thank you for your support.  If you would like more information about kidney disease, kidney transplantation and our fundraising campaign please get in touch.

Thank you