Gina Heslop
Warren Higgs, a 54-year-old man from England, has faced a difficult battle with a condition called Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD).
This genetic disorder causes multiple cysts to grow in the kidneys, making them abnormally large and heavy over time. In Warren’s case, the disease led to extreme complications, as his kidneys swelled to an enormous size, eventually weighing a record-breaking 74 pounds combined.
The size of his kidneys caused severe health issues, crushing his lungs, stomach, and heart. He could no longer eat solid food and suffered from constant pain. To manage the unbearable discomfort, he had to rely on daily doses of morphine. Despite the challenges, Warren remained determined to seek a solution.
In a life-saving surgery performed at Churchill Hospital in Oxford, Warren had his massive kidneys removed. Speaking about the surgery to the BBC, he confirmed that the size of his kidneys set a new record, surpassing previous measurements for the heaviest kidneys ever removed.
The operation was a success, and although he now depends on dialysis every two days to survive, he is hopeful about the future. Warren expects to join the kidney transplant list next year, which would offer him a chance at a healthier life.
Before the surgery, Warren described the disease as extremely painful and slow to progress, making it hard to stay positive. However, he encouraged others with the condition to keep faith and make necessary lifestyle changes to manage it.
Now, post-surgery, Warren is focused on regaining his strength. He has returned to the gym and is training for a triathlon, which he plans to complete using a crowdfunded recumbent electric bicycle.
