Understanding Kidney Failure and Learning to Live Well

Being told you have kidney failure, or that your kidneys are getting close to that stage, can feel overwhelming. Stage 5 chronic kidney disease (CKD) means your kidneys can no longer clean your blood or keep your body in balance without support. But you still have choices, and you still have a life to live.

If you’re in Stage 4 CKD, the focus is on slowing progression and protecting your kidney function for as long as possible. While kidney damage can’t be reversed, many people are able to delay the need for dialysis or a transplant through early planning, lifestyle changes, and support from their care team.

This course is for people with Stage 4–5 CKD who haven’t started treatment yet. It will help you understand what’s happening in your body, how to manage changes, and how to take care of your health and emotional wellbeing. You are not alone.

What Will You Learn?

• What kidney failure is and how it affects your body
• How you might feel physically and emotionally and why it’s okay to feel that way
• What you can do to support your health and wellbeing
• Where to find help, connection, and guidance