A LANARKSHIRE mum has told of the reality of living with kidney disease and how a transplant saved her life. 

Fiona Davies, 39, says the procedure has given her the chance to see her son grow up. 

The Airdrie woman was diagnosed with Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) when she was a teenager and, having managed it successfully until James was born in 2012, had surgery in 2017. 

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She said: “Looking back, I had no idea how ill I actually was towards the end. I was getting through life, but was constantly tired and had no concentration. 

"Motivating myself to do things became harder and harder. 

“I wanted to hold off dialysis until my son started school, but could start to feel things dipping. I had restless legs and couldn’t sit for any length of time, I felt sick when I ate and was in bed for 7.30pm every night.

“I got the call just minutes after my son’s fifth birthday party and the transplant surgery all went to plan. 

"I was home six days later and things just got better and better. 

"It’s quite unbelievable the change it’s made to my life and I have my donor to thank for that." 

Fiona is telling her story now in a bid to raise awareness of the forthcoming organ and tissue opt out law, in the hope that it will get people thinking about their donation decision.

There are currently around 420 people in Scotland waiting on a kidney transplant, many of whom are on dialysis to keep their organs working. 

Scotland’s opt out law, which will be introduced on March 26, means that if people aged 16 and over haven’t recorded a decision about donation, they will be considered a possible donor if they die in circumstances in which they could donate.

“I am very pleased that Scotland is moving to an opt out system," Fiona added. "You don’t truly understand the impact of organ donations until your life is touched by it and I hope that the move will help increase the number of viable organs available and help those waiting.  

"Because of organ donation, my son has his mum back, and I have a future.”

Fiona was treated by medics at Airdrie's University Hospital Monklands and she has sung the praises of staff. 

She said: “The renal team at Monklands have looked after me since I was diagnosed at 17. 

Glasgow Times: Fiona has been treated by medics at Monklands Hospital Fiona has been treated by medics at Monklands Hospital

"They are amazing. When I was dealing with kidney failure, I had to take a three year old to all appointments and they were so helpful. 

"They worked around my childcare and my circumstances and what I needed was always put first.

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“They held my hand when I cried and they would take my wee boy away to give me time to compose myself before being mum again. 

"Post-transplant they have also been amazing too. They look after me so well. The team are so considerate to the fact I am working and managing a family. 

"I regularly go for my bloods at 7am before I get the train to work as my nurse is happy to accommodate me then.  I can contact my nurse or consultant at any point which is such a comfort.

Jonathan Price, renal specialist at University Hospital Monklands, said: “Fiona’s positive attitude to her kidney transplant has resulted in a new journey for her. 

"She makes the most of her life every day and it’s a great pleasure for the team here at University Hospital Monklands to provide her care and support.”