Matthew's Story
Meet Matthew, a 22-year-old entrepreneur from Glasgow. He shares his dad’s battle with polycystic kidney disease (PKD) and its profound impact on his life. Beyond business, his story is one of resilience—transforming pain into a force for change!
“My introduction to kidney disease came before I even understood its meaning. As an infant, I experienced the heartache of losing my gran to kidney disease—a painful prelude to a struggle that would later redefine my world.
Years later, kidney disease resurfaced in my life when my dad was diagnosed with PKD. Initially symptom-free, he gradually declined, and it was devastating to watch his kidney function drop below 10%. The disease that once seemed distant became the centre of our lives, forcing us to confront the possibility of losing him.
By May 2023, his condition worsened to the point where he needed surgery to remove one of his grossly enlarged kidneys—an organ weighing 8 lbs, the size of a Rugby ball. It was a major operation, marked by a large incision along his stomach.
As the eldest child, I felt a deep sense of responsibility. While studying in Hong Kong for five months, I kept a constant vigil on my dad’s health through webcam updates. Despite being so far away, I found solace in movement.
I channelled my fear into purpose by training for the Edinburgh Marathon 2023—a symbolic act of defiance against a disease that had taken so much from us. Each gruelling 10km run under the sweltering Hong Kong heat, every injury overcome, was a step taken for my dad, my family, and everyone fighting PKD.
Thankfully, by November 2023, my dad received the greatest gift of all, a kidney from a living donor. At first, things seemed to improve, but soon after, complications arose. He developed an infection, and his condition took a turn for the worse, landing him in a coma. Seeing him so vulnerable, teetering on the edge of life, was one of the hardest experiences I’ve ever faced.
As I watched my dad fight for his life, a fierce determination ignited within me. I was no longer just a bystander—I was a son, a brother, and a fighter. The fear and helplessness that once threatened to overwhelm me transformed into a resolve to take action, not only to support my family but to help others facing similar battles.
I refuse to let fear define my path. Instead, I focus on what I can control—staying active, building resilience, and securing a stable future for my family. Having completed the 75 Hard Challenge and now training for the Edinburgh Marathon, May 2025, I see each run as more than just exercise: it’s a declaration of life over despair, of hope over hardship.
Today, a year after those terrifying days in the ICU, I’m filled with gratitude. My dad has made an incredible recovery, embracing life with renewed energy and vitality—a beacon of hope that reassures us all. Yet, a shadow remains: a 50% chance that I may inherit PKD. While that fear for my future is real, my greatest concern is for my younger siblings, whom I hope never have to endure what my dad has.
Our journey—marked by pain, perseverance, and triumph—is a testament to the strength of family and the power of hope. We've also been lucky to have unwavering support from family, friends, donors, and even kind strangers.
I share my story not just to honour my dad’s fight but to stand with countless families battling PKD. My mission is clear: to support others and raise awareness, ensuring that no one faces this struggle alone.
Whether it’s building my business or running marathons, I believe in taking action, learning relentlessly, and making an impact. My journey is far from over, and I invite you to join me—because every step we take together brings us closer to a world where PKD no longer robs families of their strength and joy.”
Support Matthew as he takes on the Edinburgh Marathon for PKD.
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, OrganDonation, Transplant, Fundraising, Dialysis, Living Donation, Organ Donation, PKD, PKDTreatment