My name is Anjana Pindoria-Rettenberger and being a patient is part of my DNA.

Just my luck, I was born with one kidney (healthy humans have two) and diagnosed with chronic renal failure from the age of 3 months. On top of that I was born without a bladder, which meant the only way toxins could leave my frail body was via a stoma bag. I take 30 medicines a day just to keep me alive.

My mother donated her kidney in the winter of 1995. Almost 30 years on healthcare continues to treat me as an anomaly and the label “burden” continues to scar me. Back in those days  the chances of surviving adulthood were non existent. 

In 2024 my transplanted kidney of 29 years was failing and I was on route to end stage renal failure. Healthcare professionals said there is nothing they can do. I took control and worked actively on breaking existing healthcare silos to manage my CKD. By fusing the knowledge I had in Science, Technology and my own patient experience, I successfully reversed my renal failure. (I also became an Olympic weightlifter).

Against all odds, in 2025 my mum and I will celebrate our 30 year Kidney Transplant Anniversary.

That is why I am passionate about patient empowerment. With over 20 years of experience in the Pharmaceutical and Global Health Authority sector, I have gained strategic insights into the medicinal product journey, from Pharmaceutical development, global health regulator assessment to patient care. I believe together we can humanise healthcare and give patients the tools to holistically manage their chronic conditions.