19/11/2025
Martin Penker's Story
About six months ago I received a phone call from a close friend. Nothing unusual at first, just a normal catch-up. But what he said next stopped me in my tracks.
“You know quite a bit about kidney disease, don’t you, mate? I’ve just been diagnosed with kidney failure. I’m sat in hospital on the renal ward and they’re telling me I need emergency dialysis or I won’t make it.”
That friend was Martin Penker, and until that moment he had no idea his kidneys had failed. Doctors explained that he had glomerulonephritis which is inflammation and scarring of the kidney’s filters. The same area affected by my own condition, Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), a comparatively rare form of kidney disease.
Martin knew nothing about kidney disease, kidney failure, or dialysis. Which is true for so many people, despite kidney disease affecting nearly 10% of the global population. It’s still an illness that isn’t often spoken about, and too many only learn about it once it’s already severe.
He asked question after question, and because of my own experience and the work I do through charities and Tiktok Kidney Warrior, I helped guide him through those first overwhelming days. I pointed him towards reliable information, supportive communities, people who could help, and resources he could trust. Kidney disease isn’t just a physical battle, it hits emotionally, mentally, and spiritually, especially in the early days.
After those first conversations, we began meeting once a week for a cuppa and a chat (and yes, thankfully neither of us have fluid restrictions, even though Martin is on dialysis!). Now, around six months on, he has completed his initial course of dialysis, is feeling more confident about his journey, has been activated on the transplant waiting list, and is even planning a family holiday when he’s able to travel.
Here are Martin’s own words:
“I knew absolutely nothing about kidney disease, but I had a mate who had already faced it. I genuinely don’t know where I’d be without Darren (Tiktok Kidney Warrior). He explained everything in a way I could understand and made it feel less frightening. We meet once a week for a cuppa, talk about kidney disease, and support each other. I honestly believe that support has helped me cope with something that could easily have broken me.
Peer support is massive for kidney patients. Knowing someone who truly understands makes such a difference and it helps you feel less alone. If you’re a kidney patient, I’d strongly recommend peer support, or even a chat with the Tiktok Kidney Warrior. He’s doing brilliant work. Thank you!”
