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Hock Chye’s Journey: Living With Chronic Kidney Disease Through Strength and Adaptation

“When the toxins in my blood reduced, my appetite started to improve, and I started to generally feel better.”

Hock Chye

Age: 75 Years

Length of Treatment: 10 Years

Country: Malaysia

Hock Chye sitting in an arm chair.

How I discovered chronic kidney disease and learned to adapt

It all started when I noticed bubbles in my urine. It seemed unusual so I consulted my doctor about it. A urine and blood test were performed, after which I was informed that my kidneys are leaking protein and that I have only 30% of my kidney function left. I was devastated, because my doctor said that CKD is irreversible and will get worse over time. He said, if I live long enough, I might require dialysis one day…

 

How a low-protein diet helped me feel better and regain energy

As advised by my doctor, diet and lifestyle changes are very important. I need to stay physically active, reduce salt and protein intake. After 6 –12 months I was starting to see benefits from adapting to the supplemented low protein diet: my appetite started to improve, and I started to feel better in general. And I became happier as I was seeing those positive developments in myself.

How I stay active and manage chronic kidney disease daily

I can still do my daily routines like travelling and exercising. All I have to do is to take my prescribed medicine and be careful with my diet such as water, salt, and proteins.

 

Support from my dietitian helped me adjust to kidney-friendly eating

Diet modification is challenging especially cutting down on protein intake. With the help of a dietitian, this can be achieved.

My Advice

Yearly health check is very important. To all CKD patients: please treat it early. Seek for Nephrologist advice, adhere to the treatments and change your lifestyle.

Hock Chye is playing on his piano, smiling into the camera.