My name is Kyle and I have an identical twin brother, Craig, we both have chronic kidney disease (CKD). We were diagnosed at thirteen years of age when our family doctor noticed some concerning results in our blood work.  More tests were done, and the diagnosis of kidney disease was confirmed.  Our kidneys were failing and would continue to fail.  For the next eleven years, we were told to watch our diets, avoid activities that could cause harm to our kidneys and have check-ups every three months.  However, by 2005, Craig had grown weaker and thinner; was exhausted much of the time; was not able to think clearly; and regularly suffered from nausea.  He was barely able to work and unable to enjoy time with friends and family.  His kidneys had failed to a point where either dialysis or a transplant would be required for him to stay alive. 

Craig started dialysis and for almost 5 years, he went three times a week for his treatment and each session taking 4-5 hours. He had a catheter in his chest where they would pump his blood out, clean it and remove excess fluid. Fortunately, we finally found out our mother was a match and she donated her kidney to Craig. As a mother, she gave him the gift of life once again when she gave him one of her kidneys.

As for me, my kidneys remained functional for another 10 years. However, the inevitable occurred and I suffered the same fate as Craig. I too had to go on dialysis but knew what to expect as I had supported my brother during his years of dialysis. We found out my brother Brett was a possible match for me. After years of living with insecurity everyday regarding my health and worrying about my future, I was extremely excited at this prospect. Unfortunately, complications arose during testing process and we found out he would not be the perfect match for me. 

Two years later, we found another match in my Uncle Jack. Once again, I began to feel hopeful. But as fate would have it, complications with my diabetes and kidney disease caused issues with my feet.  My bones were brittle from dialysis treatments, and I broke my foot and developed ulcers on my heel. I had to be taken off the transplant list. It has been a struggle over the past months, but I remain optimistic that things will turn around. The care and compassion, I have received from everyone in the renal unit certainly helped. I am making progress and hope that very soon I will be able to have my transplant and get my life back.  

I feel extremely lucky, to be able to share my story.  The Kidney Walk is very important to me and I have participated in the walk for several years. It raises awareness and funds to help patients and their families, like mine, going through the challenges kidney disease causes. I truly hope no one ever has to experience kidney failure or have a family member face it, but if they ever do, it is great to have good people around you and the support of an organization like the Kidney Foundation of Canada, always in your corner to help.