Kay's Story
Turning Fear into Action for PKD
As we work to dispel myths about kidney disease this World Kidney Day, we celebrate not only the patients but also the often—unsung heroes—their supportive family members. Kay, a 43-year-old mother of three from Staffordshire, is one such hero.
When her husband, Craig, and later their youngest son, Charlie, were diagnosed with Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD), she was devastated. But instead of letting fear take over, she turned their struggle into a mission to raise awareness and funds for PKD—all while supporting Craig through his journey and guiding Charlie to ensure he has the tools he needs to stay healthy as he grows up.
A Family’s Journey with PKD
PKD runs deep in Craig’s family. His grandmother had it, and his father tragically passed away at just 42 from a brain aneurysm, a known risk of the disease. Craig had no symptoms and only discovered he had PKD when he stepped forward to donate a kidney to his sister, who also has it. Devastatingly, tests revealed he, too, had PKD, making him ineligible as a donor. Thankfully, their mother was a match and successfully donated a kidney, giving Craig’s sister a second chance.
If that wasn’t hard enough for Kay, then came the moment doctors diagnosed six-week-old Charlie with PKD after finding multiple cysts on his kidneys. The thought of her baby facing the disease was terrifying
“I panicked. I had no idea what this meant for him,” Kay recalls.
Searching online only worsened her fears, with conflicting and often frightening information. It wasn’t until she found the PKD Charity that she finally gained clarity. Learning that Charlie was unlikely to develop severe symptoms until much later helped her regain control - and set her on a new path to take action.
Running Towards a Cure
Determined to turn fear into action, Kay looked for ways to help the PKD Charity and found a fundraising opportunity: the Birmingham Half Marathon. The only problem? She wasn’t a runner! In fact, she jokes that she “couldn’t even run for the ice cream van!”
But that didn’t stop her. She joined a running club and, through dedication, built up her endurance. Four months later, she crossed the finish line of her first half marathon—an experience that changed everything. Running became more than just a way to raise money; it became a lifeline for her mental health.
“Running gave me focus and strength,” Kay says. “Instead of feeling powerless, I felt like I was doing something positive.”
Since that first race, Kay has completed over 50 events, from 10Ks to 10-mile runs, always wearing her PKD vest with pride. But her fundraising efforts don’t stop there. She has organised charity stalls, bake sales, tombolas, an auction evening, and even a 5K family fun run - all to support the PKD Charity.
A Relentless Advocate
For the past decade, Kay has run every World Kidney Day, increasing her mileage each year to match its anniversary. In 2025, she will run an incredible 19 miles to mark 19 years of World Kidney Day, Thursday 13 March. World Kidney Day is an annual campaign to help raise awareness of kidneys and show the impact when they don’t work properly. It also aims to educate people on what kidneys do, the symptoms of kidney disease and how to improve your kidney health.
Kay's message is clear: while PKD is serious, it does not have to define those who have it. She passionately promotes staying active, eating well, and staying hydrated to help manage the condition.
“PKD doesn’t have to be a life sentence,” she says. “I want to show families that you can still live a full and active life.”
As the PKD Charity celebrates 25 years of supporting families, Kay remains a beacon of hope. She proves that in the face of adversity, love and determination can drive incredible change.
And as she laces up her running shoes for another year, her mission is stronger than ever: to fight for a future where PKD no longer threatens families like hers.
Support Kay as she runs for PKD this World Kidney Day.
If you would like to speak to us about what support we can offer you or a loved one, please visit PKD Support or contact us today and speak to a member of our team.
ADPKD, Fundraising, Research, Volunteers, PKD, World Kidney Day, WKD