Jo's Journey with Kidney Beam & Health Coaching

Meet Jo.B

Jo was diagnosed with Alport syndrome, a rare genetic condition that causes kidney disease, hearing loss, and eye abnormalities, in primary school. Initially, doctors believed the condition was X-linked, meaning she and her sister would only be carriers. However, it was soon discovered that it was actually an autosomal recessive form of Alport syndrome. Despite managing her kidney function for many years, Jo is now nearly 50 and on the transplant list, approaching end-stage kidney failure.

Challenges with Exercise

Jo has never been a natural exerciser. While her husband is naturally inclined towards fitness, she has always needed external motivation. About 20 years ago, a kidney consultant encouraged her to exercise, and her husband took the advice seriously, helping her incorporate movement into her routine. However, finding the right type of exercise that suited her changing health needs was an ongoing struggle.

Discovering Kidney Beam

Jo decided to join Kidney Beam in November 2024 after a long period of bad weather prevented her usual outdoor activities. In her professional life, she observed that people who adapted their exercise routines after an injury, or a chronic health concern, tended to maintain better health and happiness. Having had to stop running due to a hip issue, she sought an alternative that would keep her active without the discouragement of comparing past performance to current capabilities. Additionally, she recognised a need for strength training to manage fatigue and general weakness, and discovered Kidney Beam through online searches for support.

Impact of Kidney Beam and Health Coaching

As a new Kidney Beamer, Jo was offered 1-to-1 support from Kidney Beam’s health coaches. Working with health coach Linda on a plan to get her moving, Jo found significant value in the personalised support provided, which made her feel motivated and cared for. Unlike generic automated messages, Linda’s check-ins felt personal and encouraging. Jo also appreciated the flexibility of the programmes on Kidney Beam, allowing her to balance online sessions with other activities like cycling and swimming.

Results and Benefits

Since joining Kidney Beam, Jo has noticed both physical and psychological improvements. She feels stronger, less short of breath when climbing stairs, and has more stamina during bike rides. Psychologically, she has gained confidence in her abilities, and plans to maintain an active lifestyle, even if she begins dialysis. The program’s inclusive and flexible approach reassured her that she could continue exercising at various levels of ability, regardless of whether she needed to remain seated, or even exercise while in a dialysis chair.

Take it from Jo!

Jo highly recommends Kidney Beam and believes it could benefit many other kidney patients. Her story highlights the importance of accessible, adaptable fitness programmes for individuals managing chronic kidney disease, and the benefit programmes like Kidney Beam has on all aspects of life.

If you need some guidance on how Kidney Beam can benefit you, get in touch by emailing hello@kidneybeam.com