What We Do
In a nutshell it’s about supporting kids with kidney disease so they can live their best lives.
And to be effective in supporting those kids, we also need to be there for their families. Providing a personalised wraparound service that helps the whole family navigate stress, loneliness, separation and uncertainty is all part of our service.
Life for a young person with kidney disease is challenging.
Often it can mean lengthy periods away from home for the child and their parent/caregiver. During this time away, Kidney Kids aims to help alleviate the stress by offering emotional and practical support to families while their child receives specialised medical treatment.
Throughout the journey, Kidney Kids provides continued support to the whānau, with advocacy and hospital or home visits. Kidney Kids also provide educational support for those children who are missing school.
Part of our role is empowering families and children to connect with effective resources and information to achieve the best possible outcomes.
Building a strong supportive community around these families is a core part of the work we do. Connecting with others on the same journey, creating fun memories together, and finding a sense of belonging is key. It makes the experience of being a Kidney Kid or a parent less lonely and less daunting. With our help, families can focus on the most important job of all – loving and caring for their children.
Kidney disease is not fun, but having fun is something we aspire to for all our Kidney Kids.
That’s why we organise parties, camps, young adult retreats and local events that bring joy, make memories and allow them time in a safe environment to just be kids.
Families with a Kidney Kid tell us we are trusted, helpful and honest in the way we deliver our services and guide them along the journey.
