Brenda Watego, a proud Quandamooka woman from Minjerribah (North Stradbroke Island), says it was hard to accept the diagnosis of kidney disease and the lifestyle changes that followed.
Brenda recently shared her journey with diabetes and kidney disease as well as the support she’s received from Redland’s healthcare team.
“The people working at Redland Hospital look after you really well,” Brenda said.
"They’re excellent. They’ve got a great sense of humour, and they make you feel at home.”
Brenda said many of her health challenges had stemmed from diabetes, losing some of her eyesight and now living with kidney disease.
“Kidney disease isn’t visible, so I just ask people for patience. “You’re at hospital Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday for four or five hours, and it can be a harsh treatment. You are drained and lose energy.”
Brenda said she was focused on staying positive and taking things one day at a time and encouraged health professionals to continue building a rapport with the Indigenous community.
“You need to gain their trust to encourage them to come here," she said. “There's often a trust issue with just not being heard or seen so you know, listen to the people, listen to the community.
Social Worker Jessica Hays thanked Brenda for sharing her story at the recent Renal Dialysis Unit Kidney Action Week afternoon tea.
“It’s really brave of our patients to share their stories,” she said. “The afternoon teas were used to highlight the importance of kidney health education but also created a space for patients, their families and staff to share their stories.”