Rhiannon needs a kidney
Rhiannon, a passionate artist, gamer, and advocate, has shared her personal and inspiring journey through a challenging healthcare experience, shedding light on the barriers faced by individuals navigating chronic illness and systemic bias. Rhiannon was told that her blood work was ‘normal’ only to find out 5 years later this was not the case.
You could give the gift of life to someone like Rhiannon by registering your interest to be a living kidney donor.
Growing up, Rhiannon’s life was filled with creativity and movement. Dancing was one of her greatest passions, along with creating art, crafting gifts, and gaming. However, Rhiannon’s lifestyle took a turn when in 2020, a combination of personal stress and an unexpected diagnosis of Stage 5 chronic kidney disease (CKD) altered the course of her life.
“I had never experienced any symptoms,” Rhiannon shared. “In 2020, during a tough time with my mother’s health, I noticed my hair was falling out. I had some blood tests which my GP initially told me were ‘normal.’ However, a follow-up revealed abnormalities, and I was advised to get a biopsy.” This biopsy led to a life-changing chronic kidney disease diagnosis.
Rhiannon’s experience, however, was marred by systemic challenges, including weight gain due to steroids and facing fatphobia in healthcare. “I gained six dress sizes due to medication and lockdown. Yet, I faced judgments on my size, with comments in my file suggesting I was ‘lazy and unproductive.’ These assumptions couldn’t be further from the truth.”
Despite the adversity, Rhiannon found hope and support from dedicated professionals like a specialist nurse who questioned why weight-loss surgery hadn’t been offered as part of her treatment plan. This nurse’s advocacy and guidance led Rhiannon to the weight-loss surgery she needed to improve her chances for a transplant.
“The nurse provided her email for any questions and made sure I knew my options. Without her, this pathway would have been intentionally hidden from me,” Rhiannon said.
Rhiannon’s weight-loss surgery on October 9th marked a significant milestone in her journey toward receiving a kidney transplant. She continues to advocate for equitable and compassionate healthcare, urging the medical community to address biases that can overshadow patients’ needs.
“I want my story to inspire others to advocate for themselves and seek out professionals who genuinely care. No one should feel neglected or dismissed because of bias.”
Melissa, ACLT’s National Development Coordinator, highlighted the importance of Rhiannon’s story and the need for more people, especially those of African, Caribbean heritage to register as Organ donors.
“Rhiannon’s journey is a testament to her incredible resilience in the face of systemic challenges and health disparities. Her story is one that resonates deeply with us at ACLT, as it emphasizes the urgent need for equitable healthcare and the life-changing impact of organ donation. We are proud to support Rhiannon in her advocacy and encourage everyone to step forward as organ donors. By doing so, you could give someone like Rhiannon the second chance at life they deserve.
Rhiannon’s resilience, determination, and advocacy for better healthcare have turned her challenges into a powerful story of hope and empowerment.”
