Diagnosed with chronic kidney disease in 2011, Preeti, from Lucknow, faced years of health challenges, including dialysis, tuberculosis, and a life-threatening lung infection. Supported by her family and a life-saving kidney transplant from her husband, she now advocates for early detection and greater awareness of kidney health
I am a working woman from Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India, and an environmental educator with a national organization. Nature is my passion, music is my companion—and behind it all, I have been fighting a long and often invisible battle with chronic kidney disease (CKD), a journey that has reshaped my life in every way.
The Diagnosis That Changed Everything
In 2011, I was 36 and my daughter was just 7 when my life shifted. I had been managing high blood pressure, often skipping medication while juggling work and family. I ignored the fatigue, shortness of breath, and constant exhaustion, thinking it was stress—until test results showed that only 30% of my kidney function remained.
The diagnosis felt like the ground disappeared beneath me. I saw multiple doctors before finding a specialist who truly understood my condition and gave me hope. That encounter helped me shift from fear to determination.
Adjusting to Life with CKD
From that moment, everything changed. I had to completely modify my lifestyle—carefully planning meals, monitoring salt and water intake, and tracking my blood pressure daily. Over time, I found comfort in cooking kidney-friendly meals that kept me healthy and satisfied.
CKD affected more than just my kidneys. My immunity dropped, and I became prone to infections. Repeated urinary tract infections led to hospitalizations, and I was later diagnosed with tuberculosis in my lymph nodes. The tuberculosis treatment was gruelling and lasted over two years, leaving my kidneys further damaged. That is when my doctor said it was time to prepare for a transplant. My husband, without hesitation, offered to be my donor.
A Life-Threatening Turn
Just as I was adjusting, a severe lung infection landed me in the ICU. My breathing worsened, and no medication seemed to help. Doctors had to use strong antibiotics to save me, but the cost was total kidney failure. I began dialysis, and the transplant became urgent.
Right before the COVID-19 lockdown, I received a kidney from my husband. But complications followed—my body initially rejected the kidney, and the lung infection returned. My lungs filled with fluid, and I was once again fighting for my life. Thanks to expert care, I pulled through. Today, four years post-transplant, I live with deep gratitude for this second chance.
Awareness and Early Action Matter
When I was first diagnosed, I knew little about CKD. Coming from a science background, I dove into research, learning how to manage the disease through diet, lifestyle, and medication. That knowledge empowered me.
| I also realized that awareness about kidney disease is shockingly low—even among medical professionals. Had I received regular kidney checkups earlier, I might have avoided some of the damage. | In the last decade, I have seen CKD cases rise sharply. Early detection can save lives, and I now advocate for increased awareness and patient education. |
My Circle of Strength
I would not have made it through without the incredible support of my family. My husband has been my anchor, and my daughter, now grown, gave me strength during the darkest moments. My parents, brothers, and extended family stood by me with unwavering support. I am also grateful to my workplace, which gave me the flexibility to balance treatment and work. And I cannot overstate the role of my doctor—his guidance, compassion, and medical expertise were critical to my survival.
Moving Forward
Living with CKD is a lifelong commitment. It takes discipline, resilience, and strong support. I have faced setbacks I never imagined, but each one taught me to value life more deeply. Every day, I am grateful—for breath, for family, for the ability to keep moving forward.
This story is not just mine—it echoes in the lives of countless others living with chronic illness. If I could share one lesson, it would be this: trust your body, ask questions, get tested, and never give up hope.
Disclaimer: The blog series is intended for informational purposes only and is not meant to endorse or promote any specific drug, product, or brand. Each individual’s experience is unique and should not be construed as medical advice or a guarantee of similar results for others. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions regarding your health and well-being.
