Actress Ufuoma McDermott has shared her 12-year battle with stage four kidney disease, describing the impact it has had on her life and career.
In a recent interview with media personality Chude Jideonwo, Ufuoma revealed that her struggle with kidney disease began over a decade ago, shortly after the loss of her older brother to chronic kidney disease.
Diagnosed with stage three kidney disease in 2023, her condition recently escalated to stage four, marking a critical point in her health journey.
Ufuoma said doctors initially advised her to slow down and prioritise rest.
However, thinking she could manage the illness alongside her demanding work schedule, she delayed adjusting her lifestyle.
Unfortunately, this decision led to a rapid progression to stage four.
Ufuoma explained that her kidney issues were triggered by long-term use of drugs like painkillers.
The illness forced her into six months of immobility, during which she couldn’t work or even gain weight. For some time, she said she feared she was nearing the end.
Despite these challenges, the actress found strength and a renewed purpose, motivated by love for her children and determination to live.
She said she has come to view her struggle as a life-changing experience that has reshaped her approach to work, family and personal health.
