Natalie Nicholls

Why I'm Running In Red Socks

In September 2016, my life changed forever. I was diagnosed with Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS)—a rare and chronic kidney disease. Those three words—“You have kidney disease”—hit like a tidal wave. The tears came first, then the fear, and finally, a reluctant acceptance of a future I never planned for.

Eight months later, I sat in a doctor’s office and heard something even more life-altering:

“If you want children, it’s now or never.”

I walked out feeling broken, confused, and overwhelmed by decisions no one should have to make so young. But life doesn’t wait—and neither did I.

By 2018 and 2019, my world was forever changed again—this time in the best way. I became a mum to two beautiful miracles: Layla and Ollie. They gave me a reason to fight harder and live more intentionally. Motherhood didn’t just give me purpose—it gave me perspective.

Fast forward to August 2025—after months of declining health, hard conversations, and emergency hospital visits, I had a peritoneal dialysis catheter inserted and began my new reality: daily dialysis. A routine I never imagined, but one I face with determination.

Why I’m Running

This October, I’m proudly taking part in the Red Socks Run—not just for me, but for every renal unit, every patient, and every family impacted by kidney disease.

I’m showing up to honour those who spend 60 hours a month on dialysis.

I’m moving towards a future without dialysis.

There are over 15,000 Australians currently on dialysis—and that number is rising. We need urgent action to slow its progression and, ultimately, stop it.

Every dollar raised, every kilometre logged, every step we take brings us closer to a future without dialysis.

Join me.

Move for them. Move for change.

Please donate to support a better future for people living with kidney disease.