From PKD to Podium – A Journey of Resilience and Celebration.

Meet Helen Wilson, whose journey with polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is a story of remarkable grit, self-belief, and the life-changing power of organ donation. A double transplant recipient, Helen has competed in eight British, one European, and two World Transplant Games since 2015 — and she’s not done yet!

“I was diagnosed with PKD in 2000. By December 2005, I was in end-stage kidney failure. Things went downhill fast. In 2006, both of my kidneys were removed as they’d grown too large — which is sadly common with PKD.

After this, I went on dialysis, which meant being plugged into a machine at the hospital for five hours, three nights a week. This had a huge impact on my life as well as my family and friends. But it didn’t suit me at all — I became very unwell.

Thankfully, my amazing brother Steve stepped forward and donated one of his kidneys to me in February 2007. We called it Sydney the Kidney — and from then on, I didn’t look back.

All was well for a few years, and then we discovered I also had a polycystic liver, and I once again became incredibly sick. 

Polycystic liver disease (PLD) is common in people with PKD, especially women. Not everyone develops symptoms — in fact, most people with liver cysts still have normal liver function and don’t need treatment.

But in some cases, the cysts can sometimes grow large and cause pain, pressure, or other complications.  And in more severe cases, like mine, a liver transplant may become the only option.

I became very unwell again, and just as things were getting desperate, another incredible gift came along.

In December 2013, a generous donor family — who had agreed to their loved one’s wishes — gave me the chance of a second transplant. I received a new liver, who I affectionately call Lionel the Liver, and once again, I got my life back."

"Now, I celebrate the gift of life every time I compete.

I’m about to take part in my ninth British Transplant Games. Last year, I won triple gold, and I’ve also competed in one European and two World Transplant Games — with my third World Games coming up this August in Germany.

Since 2015, I’ve proudly won 37 medals — including 26 gold. That first Games in 2015 was also when I discovered the PKD Charity — and met the wonderful, late Tess Harris, who became a huge support.

I take part in archery, discus, shot put, and javelin – none of which I’d ever tried before!

Considering that at my worst I couldn’t walk far — let alone take part in sport — I’m now the fittest I’ve ever been and having an incredible time. And it’s all thanks to my selfless donors, their families, and the amazing people who work in the NHS.

For me, the Games aren’t just about sport. They’re about honouring donors and their families, meeting amazing people with similar stories, and showing what’s possible after transplant.

If my journey proves anything, it’s that even after facing life-threatening illness, you can rebuild, thrive, and inspire others. With love, support, and the gift of donation, life after PKD really can be golden.”

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.

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