Dylan Jack Moran, a solo music artist from Glasgow, was diagnosed in late 2024 with IgA vasculitis, a rare kidney condition for someone at his stage of life. Despite months of chemotherapy, dialysis, and prolonged hospital stays, his kidney function continued to decline, and he now requires a kidney transplant. While facing severe illness and uncertainty, Dylan turned to music as a source of strength, launching his solo career from a hospital bed and gaining recognition in Glasgow’s underground music scene. 

My name is Dylan Jack Moran, a solo music artist from Glasgow. In late 2024, I was diagnosed with a rare kidney condition for someone my age, IgA Vasculitis. I was 23 at that time. 

Because this condition had never been seen in someone my age before, my healthcare team was uncertain about the best course of action.  It was eventually decided that I would undergo months of chemotherapy, dialysis and many other medicinal treatments including prolonged time as a patient in hospital. This had me up and down mentally, as my kidney function was in a constant changing state. 

Unfortunately, despite restless work from my health team, my kidneys failed and I now require a kidney transplant. Despite this ongoing treatment, with its various side effects, I have managed to launch my solo music project, which has been met with much love from Glasgow’s underground music scene. 

 A ‘need to get on with it’ attitude had overcome me as I lay in a hospital bed with a bold question mark looming overhead. 
 

I found the determination within me to record my backlog of songs, and through my small team of believers and supporters, I was able to fulfil this lifelong ambition despite major health setbacks. There were days when I was not sure I would be here much longer. Grim as it may sound, it is simply what was. I was told that if I had been any older, I would have been ‘made comfortable’.  I endured the pain, sickness, sweaty sleepless nights, and all the other expected effects of an ongoing chronic illness. Words can not adequately sum up what it felt like to be in this position. As far as I wasaware nobody my age had ever been diagnosed with IgA Vasculitis, and in this regard, I felt alone. 

However, through music, I found some forms of serenity. I pushed on at full throttle, not stopping to let anyone tell me otherwise, and pursued what I care about most. I have done this to prove to myself that I was not beaten, and this is why I spread this message today. No matter how morbid the situation may be, it remains of upmost importance to stay true to yourself and follow what you believe in. As cliche as it may be, dreams are possible to be lived, given the right mindset.  

Through pain, we gain strength and focus.

Your story is a weapon, use it.  Do not let anyone take the pen.

I now have launched my solo career to success, releasing my first tunes, playing more gigs and rounding this calendar year off with a headline show at King-Tuts Wah Wah Hut, a bucket list ambition of mine. 

I aim to spread a message of hope and support for those who may need it. You can achieve your goals. Kidney disease is NOT the end.  

Remember to keep positive no matter what and “keep on keepin’ on”. Keep believing in yourself, you can overcome anything. 

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.