Gold Coast nurse with rare disorder awaiting third kidney transplant
Daniel Hoepner, a Gold Coast clinical nurse, continues to work full-time while managing a rare genetic kidney disorder. He is currently awaiting his third kidney transplant after living with the condition since birth.
Why it matters
The story highlights the resilience of healthcare workers and raises awareness for rare genetic conditions like congenital nephrotic syndrome.
Daniel Hoepner requires haemodialysis every second day. ( Supplied: Daniel Hoepner )
Link copied Share Share article Gold Coast nurse Daniel Hoepner spends his days responding to medical emergencies and helping save lives.
But, unbeknown to many of the patients he cares for, he is also waiting for life-saving treatment of his own.
The 30-year-old is living with kidney failure and is waiting for his third kidney transplant after being diagnosed with a rare disease shortly after birth.
Despite spending six hours every second day on haemodialysis to filter his blood, Mr Hoepner continues to work full-time as a clinical nurse consultant in the Clinical Response Unit across Gold Coast University Hospital and Robina Hospital.
Daniel Hoepner was diagnosed with congenital nephrotic syndrome of the Finnish type. ( Supplied: Daniel Hoepner )
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