At just 23 years old, Becca Moore faced a life-altering diagnosis that left her reeling. Doctors warned her that without significant lifestyle changes, particularly increasing her water intake, she might not live to celebrate her 24th birthday. A severe urinary tract infection had compromised her kidney function, leaving her with just 12% capacity. The situation was dire, but a kidney transplant brought a glimmer of hope and changed the trajectory of her life.
The transplant marked a turning point for Becca, allowing her to feel rejuvenated and regain a sense of normalcy. She expressed her relief and joy post-transplant, stating, "I got my life back again and for that first year it was amazing." However, the journey was not without its challenges. Despite the physical improvements, Becca battled a deep depression, exacerbated by the misunderstanding and invisibility of her condition to others. Her mental health took a significant hit as she navigated the complexities of her illness.
Becca's struggle wasn't just physical; it was also psychological. Reflecting on her initial prognosis, she shared, "To get the news you wouldn't make your 24th birthday… it spiralled my mental health… in some respect I became a recluse." Her experience highlights the emotional toll such diagnoses can take on patients. Although the transplant significantly improved her condition, she noted, "They say a transplant isn't a cure, but actually when you're so poorly beforehand you think it's going to give me my life back…but it's not a cure. It is just a treatment for however long it lasts."
Now at 29, Becca works as a special needs teaching assistant. Despite her achievements, she faces new challenges as her donated kidney begins to deteriorate. This recurrence is daunting, as she observes familiar patterns from her past struggles. Becca admits, "You sort of see the patterns of what happened the first time around happening again so it's quite scary." Nonetheless, she is determined to use her experience to benefit others.
Becca aims to raise awareness for Kidney Research UK by participating in a five-mile walk in her home city of Peterborough on March 29. Through this fundraiser, she hopes to improve understanding and support for those affected by kidney disease. By sharing her story openly, Becca aspires to educate others about the realities of living with this condition and the significance of early detection and treatment.
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