Episode 106: Young, Brave & on Dialysis: Emma’s Fight for Awareness

On this episode of Diary of a Kidney Warrior Podcast, we bring you the powerful story of Emma Kearns, a young peritoneal dialysis patient whose journey is one of resilience, determination, and survival. From her early diagnosis of kidney disease to battling sepsis, kidney failure, and navigating ableist workplaces, Emma’s experience sheds light on the harsh realities of chronic illness while inspiring hope for others facing similar struggles. Emma shares how she left behind her life in Liverpool to return to Northern Ireland for a transplant, a move that came with deep emotional challenges, including the fear of catheter surgery and adjusting to dialysis. We explore the misconceptions surrounding dialysis, the mental toll of being tethered to a machine, and the struggle to maintain a sense of normalcy. She opens up about the painful realities of ‘drain pain,’ living with a catheter, and the impact of public misconceptions about CKD. Despite these challenges, Emma’s strength shines through. With the support of the TikTok kidney community, she has found a powerful platform to raise awareness about kidney disease, fight stigma, and connect with others on the same journey. In this heartfelt conversation, we also discuss the barriers young kidney patients face, including the lack of understanding and empathy in workplaces, and the crucial role of social media in building a global support network for kidney warriors. Join us for this inspiring episode as we explore Emma’s journey—a testament to the resilience, courage, and hope that defines the kidney warrior spirit.   For updates and more, follow Dee Moore on:   Instagram: www.instagram.com/diaryofakidneywarrior  Facebook: www.facebook.com/diaryofakidneywarrior  Twitter: www.twitter.com/diaryofakidneyw  Tik Tok: @diaryofakidneywarrior  Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChGUfib7lu9eKENlLJ6lafw Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/diaryofakidneywarrior/   Follow Emma Kearns Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/_thekidneychroniclesigsh=NGpidjU0bXgwb3dx   Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@_thekidneychronicles?_t=8klHphQ0ExU&_r=1   If you were affected by any of the issues raised in this episode contact:    Kidney Care UK   •           Website: www.kidneycarekuk.org •           Email: [email protected] •           Tel: 01420 541 424 •           Facebook: www.facebook.com/kidneycareuk.org •           Instagram: @kidneycareuk •           YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeqQTdAsEzXphqjHVtcTD-A   To sign up to receive the Kidney Matters Quarterly Magazine Email: [email protected]   Young Adult’s Kidney Group (YAKG)   https://www.kidneycareuk.org/get-support/young-adult-kidney-group-yakg/   Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by Guests on this podcast are those of the Guest and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Dee Moore or Kidney Care UK. Any content provided by our Guests are of their opinion, and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organisation, company, individual or anyone or anything.