After more than three decades of dedicated service to kidney patients and their families, Linda Pickering, NKF Helpline Advisor at the National Kidney Federation, has retired.

Linda’s journey surrounding kidney disease began in 1996 following her husband Les’ diagnosis with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Motivated by a desire to help others facing similar challenges, she quickly joined the Friends of Lincoln Kidney Patients charity, going on to serve as both Chair and Secretary.

One of her most significant achievements was helping secure charitable status and establishing Lincolnshire Kidney Patient Association in 2001, laying the foundations for support that continues to benefit patients to this day.

Her commitment continued at a national level, starting with the National Kidney Federation (NKF) charity and British Kidney Patient Association (BKPA) as an advocate in a joint venture, and she served on the Executive Committee Board of the NKF.

After relocating to East Yorkshire, Linda took on the role of Advocacy and Patient Support Officer, working tirelessly across the North East, Yorkshire and Humber to improve the lives of those affected by kidney disease.

In 2020, her focus shifted specifically to Yorkshire, before she later returned to the NKF as a Helpline Advisor, bringing her career full circle.

Throughout her time, Linda has made a lasting impact, transforming the support available with her knowledge, passion and dedication.

Her work has touched many. One individual, Colin, who called the NKF Helpline for support, shared how Linda has helped change their family’s future:

“When Linda picked up the phone that first day, it changed our lives.

My wife, Jill, had a failed kidney transplant, and we didn’t know where to turn. Linda gave us the support we needed to help me continue the process of becoming a living donor.

In July 2025, my wife received my kidney, and it worked perfectly. Today, we are both doing brilliantly.

Linda gave me my wife back, our children their mum back, and our grandson his grandma. We are forever grateful.”

Wanting to personally thank Linda for her support, Colin contacted the NKF to ask if he could arrange a surprise visit to the Head Office in Worksop, Nottinghamshire, all the way from Bridlington. A visit was organised, giving them the chance to finally meet in person and reflect on their journey. To read Colin's story please visit here.

Reflecting on her time within the renal world, Linda commented:
“When my husband was first diagnosed with CKD, it came as a huge shock. I went to our local library and found a number for the NKF and they were our lifeline. They gave us the information and support we desperately needed at that time, and I hope that, as an NKF Helpline Advisor, I’ve been able to offer the same support to other patients and families facing similar circumstances.

Over the years, I’ve met some truly wonderful people, and I’ve also sadly lost friends to this cruel disease. As I step away from the helpline, I know I’m leaving it in very safe hands.”

Andrea Brown, NKF Chief Executive, added:
“Linda has devoted years of outstanding service to supporting and advocating for kidney patients and their families. Her compassion, commitment and tireless work have touched countless lives, and we are deeply grateful for the difference she has made. We wish her every happiness in her retirement.”

Linda leaves behind an extraordinary legacy of advocacy and life changing support for kidney patients and their families.