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Tired of hearing “You don’t look ill” or “Just get a transplant to fix it”? Join us for World Kidney Day, Thursday 13th March, and help set the record straight about the realities of kidney disease with this year’s campaign, Don’t Kid Yourself!

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Kidney disease is on the rise, affecting over 7 million in the UK, with polycystic kidney disease (PKD) the fourth leading cause of kidney failure. Yet, it remains misunderstood, underfunded, and overlooked.

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How can you help?

Share posts, host events, educate others, or tell your story!

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Access more information here.

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We'd love for all our teams to host local get-togethers and celebrations, in-person or virtually, wherever you can. Don't forget to send us your pictures!

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This week, we pause with a mix of sorrow and gratitude to remember Tess Harris. As CEO of the PKD Charity until her passing on March 1, 2024, Tess dedicated her life to this community with boundless passion, warmth, and unwavering commitment.

A year on, her legacy continues through the work she championed and the countless lives she touched. Whether Tess supported you personally, inspired you through her advocacy, or left a lasting impression in another way, we invite you to celebrate her life and share your memories.

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You can view Tess's memorial board, here.

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Towana Looney, a 53-year-old woman from Alabama, is continuing to recover well after receiving a gene-edited pig kidney transplant.

She underwent the procedure on November 25, 2024, and is now the longest-living recipient of this kind of transplant. As the third recipient of a genetically-edited pig kidney, her success offers new hope for xenotransplantation which has the potential to address the severe organ shortages.

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You can read the full story of this medical marvel here.

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Our support groups are growing throughout the UK, with new ones now in Greater Manchester, Birmingham, and Wiltshire! Most groups meet in a local café, offering a relaxed and friendly space to chat, share experiences, or simply be among others who understand PKD.

As Tina puts it: “Talking and communication are essential for living with PKD. You don't have to suffer in silence”

Whether you're looking for advice or just a friendly face, you’ll find a warm welcome in a PKD group. Join us today!

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If you would like to know more about PKD's support groups, you can see all the information here.

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