Our People
Our Staff Members
Our Trustees
My name is Lynne Orton, and I am Chair of Popham Kidney Support — a role I feel incredibly honoured to hold.
I am a retired businesswoman and previously ran a successful business networking group, bringing many years of experience in leadership, communication and relationship-building to my role with the charity.
I have a personal connection to Popham Kidney Support through the family of Paul Popham, in whose memory the charity was established. Kidney disease has also touched my own family, as my mother-in-law lives with kidney problems.
I am incredibly proud of how Popham Kidney Support has developed and of the range of services it provides to support kidney patients, their families and carers across Wales. It is particularly rewarding to see more people benefiting from the charity’s support, and I am committed to helping PKS continue to grow and make a positive difference.
My name is John Turner, or “JT” for short. I’m a Trustee of Popham Kidney Support and enjoy supporting the charity wherever I can.
My role is varied, from helping with fundraising and business administration to supporting HR activities and occasionally getting involved with IT and technology. In short, I’m happy to be a solid pair of hands and help get things done wherever I’m needed.
I feel very privileged to give my time to Popham Kidney Support and to contribute to the charity’s continued development. It’s incredibly rewarding to see the difference the organisation makes to kidney patients, their families and carers across Wales.
I’m proud to be part of the team and look forward to helping Popham Kidney Support continue to grow and support even more people affected by kidney disease.
Paul Popham was my brother-in-law, and I had the privilege of seeing first-hand his determination not to let kidney disease define him. He was truly one of a kind, and his strength, positivity and commitment to helping others continue to inspire me.
I have been incredibly proud to see how Popham Kidney Support has grown and developed, supporting patients, families and carers affected by kidney disease. As a Trustee, I want to help the charity continue to grow while remaining true to the values and ethos that Paul embodied.
I am retired, having spent much of my working life in the Human Resources department at Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water. I am an Associate Member of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development and bring my professional experience, alongside my personal connection to Paul, to my role as a Trustee.
I ran a successful motor factor business in Swansea for many years, during which time I also organised charity golf days. Golf has always been one of my favourite pastimes, so combining something I love with raising much-needed funds for good causes was particularly rewarding.
I first became involved with Popham Kidney Support after meeting CEO Joanne Popham at a business event and learning more about the charity’s work. I decided to support the charity through funds raised from my golf days, beginning a partnership that has been both successful and hugely enjoyable.
Over time, I have developed a strong and respectful relationship with Popham Kidney Support and was proud to accept the opportunity to become a Trustee.
I’m delighted to continue supporting the charity and helping it make a difference to kidney patients, their families and carers — and, of course, I can still find time for a round of golf!
Chris Dorrell joined Popham Kidney Support following his diagnosis with chronic kidney disease (CKD) in 2024. In June 2025, he was diagnosed with hereditary amyloidosis, the underlying cause of his CKD, and is now preparing for the possibility of a kidney transplant in the future.
Having experienced first-hand the challenges and uncertainty of a kidney journey, Chris is passionate about supporting others and raising awareness of kidney disease. As a Trustee, Charity Champion, Peer Mentor and Kidney Café Facilitator, he helps connect people across Pembrokeshire, offering support, understanding and reassurance to those affected by kidney disease.
I have a scientific background and have worked in the field of Human Genetics throughout my career. My work has included involvement in the Human Genome Mapping Project and contributing to a wide range of genetic research, from conditions caused by single gene mutations to more complex diseases influenced by genetic, environmental and lifestyle factors.
Through friends with family members living with chronic kidney conditions, I have seen first-hand the impact kidney disease can have on individuals and their families. I have also witnessed the importance of access to specialist testing and NHS laboratory services in monitoring patients and supporting successful organ transplantation.
I am pleased to bring my scientific knowledge and professional experience to my role as a Trustee of Popham Kidney Support. I am proud to support the charity’s work and its commitment to improving the lives of kidney patients, their families and carers.
In addition to her clinical role, Dr. Wonnacott serves as the Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) Prevention Lead for the Welsh Kidney Network, where she is committed to improving kidney health outcomes through prevention, education, and service development.
As a Trustee of Popham Kidney Support, Dr. Wonnacott brings a wealth of clinical expertise and a passion for advancing kidney care, helping to support the charity’s mission to improve the lives of people affected by kidney disease across Wales.
Dr Ashraf Mikhail MBBCh MSc MD FRCP MBA is a Consultant Nephrologist with his NHS practice at Morriston Hospital, Swansea Bay University Health Board.
Dr Mikhail has extensive experience in renal medicine and specialises in the management of chronic kidney disease and a range of kidney conditions, including diabetic kidney disease, IgA nephropathy, lupus nephritis, polycystic kidney disease and hypertension.
He completed his renal training at Guy’s and St Thomas’ Hospital in London before becoming a Consultant Nephrologist in Wales. Alongside his clinical work, Dr Mikhail has been involved in multicentre clinical trials and the development of national and international clinical guidelines in kidney care.
He is also a Senior Clinical Tutor at Swansea University, supporting the education and training of future doctors.
Dr Mikhail is passionate about delivering high-quality kidney care and improving outcomes and support for people living with kidney disease.
In recent years the central part of my work has been making sure under‑represented communities are not just consulted but involved in co‑designing national policy and strategy. My doctoral research focused on amplifying underrepresented voices in health and a care course design process, a commitment that aligns with the charity’s ethos.
Kidney disease has touched my family, giving me a personal understanding of the long‑term impact it can have on patients and those who care for them. This lived experience, combined with my professional background, drives my commitment to ensuring that people affected by kidney disease have access to compassionate, equitable, and meaningful care and support.
I am pleased to bring these various strands to my role as a Trustee of Popham Kidney Support, helping the charity continue its vital work across Wales
Roger lives in North Wales and is a kidney transplant recipient, having lived with polycystic kidney disease. Now retired, he has a scientific and engineering background and spent much of his career in operations and senior management within the international extractive resource industries.
Roger has three children and enjoys outdoor activities and theatre. Since receiving his transplant, he has also competed in the British Transplant Games as a cyclist, embracing the opportunity to celebrate the gift of transplantation and promote the importance of organ donation.
Having experienced first-hand the difference that support from the kidney community can make, Roger is passionate about giving something back. As a Trustee of Popham Kidney Support, he is proud to use his personal and professional experience to help the charity continue supporting kidney patients, their families and carers across Wales.
His research portfolio encompasses a broad range of interconnected domains, including health communication, behaviour change and sustainability, human–robot interaction, and the psychology of human–AI interactions. He has published in international journals and edited/authored several books.
Originally from India, he has studied and worked in India, China and the UK before settling in Swansea.
He joined the Board of Popham Kidney Support in 2026 and is glad to bring his experience in communications and research to support the charity’s work with kidney patients and their families across Wales.
Peer Mentors
I have lived with kidney disease for many years. At 24, I started peritoneal dialysis (PD), which I continued for 12 years, and I have received two kidney transplants, with my most recent transplant in 1996.
As a Peer Mentor with Popham Kidney Support, I use my own experience to support people living with kidney disease. For me, being a Peer Mentor is about more than sharing information — it’s about listening, understanding and being a friendly, caring voice during what can be an overwhelming and life-changing time.
I’m proud to be part of the Popham Kidney Support team and to help patients feel less alone, offering support, reassurance and a listening ear throughout their kidney journey.
My name is Nigel. My mum was a kidney patient, and I supported and cared for her for eight years while she was on dialysis. During this time, I gained first-hand experience of the challenges that can come with kidney disease, from attending hospital appointments and blood tests to liaising with renal teams and arranging support at home.
I became a Peer Mentor with Popham Kidney Support because I want to use my experience to support others living with kidney disease. I understand how overwhelming it can be for patients and their families, and I hope to offer a listening ear, reassurance and practical support to help people feel more confident in managing their own kidney journey.
I had a kidney transplant at the University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff and have been fortunate to enjoy excellent health since. As a Peer Mentor with Popham Kidney Support, I use my personal experience of kidney disease and transplantation to support others throughout their kidney journey.
I understand that living with kidney disease can bring many challenges, and I hope my own experience can provide reassurance, encouragement and a listening ear to those navigating their own journey.
Alongside my role as a Peer Mentor, I have also supported Popham Kidney Support through fundraising activities and as a Walk for Health Walk Leader. I’m proud to volunteer with the organisation and to play a part in supporting people affected by kidney disease.
I’m Julie, a mum to a daughter with a rare genetic condition that includes chronic kidney disease. Her diagnosis turned our whole world upside down, and I’ve experienced first-hand the challenges and uncertainty that kidney disease can bring to the whole family.
I became a Peer Mentor with Popham Kidney Support because I want to share my experience with others and help people feel less alone throughout their kidney journey. I understand how isolating it can sometimes feel, and how valuable it can be to have someone to talk to who genuinely understands what you are going through.
Whatever stage of the journey you are at, I’m here to listen, offer support and reassurance, and remind you that you don’t have to face it alone.
My kidney journey began when I was diagnosed with IgA nephropathy, a condition that affects the kidney’s filters. I have experienced several forms of dialysis, including peritoneal dialysis, haemodialysis and home nocturnal dialysis. Home dialysis gave me greater independence, allowing me to continue working and spend more time with my family.
I have also experienced kidney transplantation, including receiving a kidney donated by my mum. Following my first transplant, I competed in the Transplant Games, winning three gold medals and a silver.
As a Peer Mentor with Popham Kidney Support, I use my own experiences of kidney disease, dialysis and transplantation to support others. I understand the challenges patients can face and am passionate about offering a listening ear, encouragement and reassurance throughout their kidney journey.
I have lived with type 1 diabetes for many years and, before my kidney problems began, I worked happily as a physiotherapist. My experience as a kidney patient has included a range of treatments, including peritoneal dialysis, haemodialysis and kidney transplantation.
Travel has always been a great passion of mine, and I have enjoyed travelling to many parts of the world. Maintaining a good quality of life and continuing to enjoy the things that matter to me has always been important.
As a Peer Mentor with Popham Kidney Support, I want to use my personal experience of kidney disease and diabetes to support others. I hope to offer encouragement, understanding and practical reassurance, helping people to feel confident about living as full and active a life as possible.
I’m Mair, and my experience with kidney disease began when I became seriously ill and was diagnosed with multiple myeloma, a blood cancer that had affected my kidneys. I had no previous experience of dialysis, so being introduced to renal care was a huge learning curve.
After a lengthy hospital stay and ongoing dialysis, I was encouraged to explore home dialysis. With the support of my husband, we trained to use the dialysis machine, which gave me greater independence and flexibility. Thankfully, I have since been able to come off dialysis.
When I had to give up work, I decided to use my experience to support others and trained as a Peer Mentor with Popham Kidney Support. I’m passionate about helping people feel less alone and am also proud to support the Kidney Café, creating a welcoming space for people to connect and share their experiences.
I’m Rosie, and my kidney journey began when I was diagnosed with chronic kidney failure as a child. I received my first kidney transplant from my dad as a teenager, but unfortunately, the transplant later failed and I returned to haemodialysis.
After several years of dialysis, I received a second transplant, but sadly this was unsuccessful and I returned once again to haemodialysis. Eventually, a complete stranger made the incredible decision to donate their kidney to me. This third transplant gave me the opportunity to live a healthy and hopeful life.
I’m continually overwhelmed by the kindness and selflessness of all three of my donors. Their generosity inspired me to use my own experiences to support others through difficult times. As a Peer Mentor with Popham Kidney Support, I hope to offer understanding, encouragement and reassurance to people navigating their own kidney journey.
My kidney journey began following a stroke, and I was later diagnosed with chronic kidney disease (CKD). After many years attending the low clearance kidney clinic, I eventually needed to start peritoneal dialysis.
Starting dialysis during the pandemic, around my 70th birthday, was a daunting experience and I initially felt that my life was over. However, dialysis has given me a new perspective, and I now feel better than I did before starting treatment. I exercise regularly and continue to enjoy life while managing my nightly dialysis at home.
As a Peer Mentor with Popham Kidney Support, I use my experience to offer positivity, reassurance and support to people and families facing their own kidney journey. Meeting patients, families and renal professionals is incredibly rewarding, and I’m proud to help others through what can be a very difficult time.
I have lived with kidney disease for many years and have experienced a range of treatments, including peritoneal dialysis and haemodialysis. I was fortunate to receive a combined kidney and pancreas transplant, but unfortunately the kidney was rejected. After several more years on haemodialysis, I was incredibly fortunate to receive a second kidney transplant.
I became a Peer Mentor with Popham Kidney Support to offer support to people who may be starting out on their own kidney journey. While medical teams are experts in their fields, they don’t have the same lived experience as patients, and this is what I hope to bring to the role.
I want to help make the journey feel a little less daunting by offering understanding, reassurance and someone who truly knows what it’s like. I’m proud to be part of such a supportive kidney community.
I became a Peer Mentor with Popham Kidney Support after attending the Wrexham Kidney Café. The café gave me the opportunity to meet others with experiences of kidney disease and showed me how valuable peer support can be.
Inspired by the work, humour and enthusiasm of the Peer Mentors, I realised that I could use my own experiences to help others who may be facing some of the same challenges I have experienced.
Becoming a Peer Mentor felt like a natural progression from attending the Kidney Café, and I’m pleased to be able to offer support, understanding and a listening ear to others on their kidney journey.
It’s a role I find incredibly satisfying and fulfilling, and I’m proud to be part of the Popham Kidney Support team.
Hi, I’m Sally. My kidney journey has been a bit of a whirlwind. I was diagnosed with chronic kidney disease (CKD) without having realised I had kidney problems, and was initially told I might need a transplant in the future. Within a relatively short time, I had started peritoneal dialysis and found myself recovering from a kidney and pancreas transplant, while also managing other health complications.
My experiences have given me a real understanding of how overwhelming the kidney journey can be, particularly when everything happens so quickly.
I became a Peer Mentor with Popham Kidney Support because I wanted to put my lived experience to good use. I remember wishing I had someone to talk to who already understood what I was going through, without having to explain everything first. I hope I can be that person for others.
I was diagnosed with IgA nephropathy many years ago and have since experienced both haemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis. Having experienced both, I found that overnight peritoneal dialysis gave me greater freedom and flexibility, allowing me to continue enjoying many of the things I had always done, including gardening and travelling.
Although dialysis has meant making some adjustments and planning ahead, it has allowed me to continue living a full and active life. I remain in good health and feel very well supported by the renal team.
As a Peer Mentor with Popham Kidney Support, I enjoy meeting patients and families through the Kidney Cafés. The relaxed atmosphere provides an opportunity for people to openly share their experiences, ask questions and connect with others who understand what they are going through.
I find being a Peer Mentor incredibly rewarding and hope to offer reassurance, understanding and a positive perspective to others living with kidney disease.
Hi, I’m Steve. I have lived with type 1 diabetes for many years, and although I’ve always managed my condition well, I experienced kidney failure as a result of the long-term effects.
I started peritoneal dialysis, which allowed me to continue working, travel abroad and maintain a relatively normal life. After several calls for a potential transplant, I was eventually fortunate enough to receive a successful kidney transplant.
My transplant has given me a new lease of life and the freedom to enjoy my family, hobbies and interests to the full.
As a Peer Mentor with Popham Kidney Support, I want to use my own experiences of diabetes, kidney failure, dialysis and transplantation to support others facing similar challenges. I hope to offer practical knowledge, reassurance and a friendly listening ear, helping people feel more confident as they navigate their own kidney journey.
My kidney journey began as a teenager when I was diagnosed with reflux nephropathy, which had caused scarring to my kidneys. After years of managing infections, my kidney function gradually declined and I eventually needed dialysis.
My mum was a match and generously became my first kidney donor. After a lengthy testing process, I received my first transplant and was fortunate to enjoy many years with my mum’s kidney.
When that transplant eventually began to fail, my sister came forward to donate. While waiting for the transplant, I returned to peritoneal dialysis, this time using an overnight machine. Thankfully, my sister was also a match and I went on to receive my second successful kidney transplant.
As a Peer Mentor with Popham Kidney Support, I want to share my experiences in the hope that they can help others feel less alone. I understand the challenges of dialysis and transplantation and want to offer support, reassurance and encouragement throughout the journey.
Hi, I’m Mark. I have lived with chronic kidney disease (CKD) since birth after being born prematurely, when my kidneys did not fully develop.
My kidney journey has included dialysis and three kidney transplants. My first transplant, at just seven years old, sadly failed after only four days. My second transplant lasted an incredible 32 years before eventually failing, meaning I returned to haemodialysis for almost three years.
In February 2023, I was fortunate enough to receive my third kidney transplant, which is currently working well and has given me a new lease of life.
As a Peer Mentor with Popham Kidney Support, I want to use my experiences of CKD, dialysis and transplantation to support others on their own kidney journey, offering understanding, reassurance and a friendly listening ear.
In 2007, we discovered that our son Hugo, one of our newborn twins, had chronic renal failure. During our time at the Children’s Kidney Clinic at the Heath, we found Popham Kidney Support. Their warmth and practical support, from Kidney Cafés to family Christmas parties, made an enormous difference to our family.
I stepped away from work to care for Hugo while we waited for a transplant. In April 2024, he received a life-changing kidney from his favourite aunty, Helen, Robert’s sister. After years of surgery and treatment, life is finally back to its wonderfully noisy normal, with Hugo and his twin Jude filling the house with drumming, electric guitar and death metal!
I wanted to give back to the organisation that supported us so much. Today, I’m proud to be a Popham Kidney Support volunteer peer mentor, supporting patients and families, fundraising and helping at events.
Our Counsellors
I’m Rimpi Chauhan. I have a Master’s degree in Psychology from Coventry University and a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from India. I have extensive experience working in the health sector, including as a Counselling Psychologist, where I supported people through a range of mental health and wellbeing challenges.
My experience includes psychological assessments, counselling and supporting individuals living with dementia, autism, challenging behaviours and infertility-related concerns. I also volunteer with the Alzheimer’s Society, supporting people with dementia through group activities.
I’m passionate about helping people manage the psychological and emotional challenges that can accompany health conditions. As part of the Popham Kidney Support team, I hope to use my experience, compassion and listening skills to support people and make a positive difference to those navigating their own kidney journey.
Outside of volunteering, I enjoy arts and crafts and cooking.
I’m Martha, and my passion is for people, connection, nature and learning. I have several years of experience working in mental health and supportive environments, alongside training in counselling.
I’m passionate about helping people find a sense of peace, feel comfortable being themselves and navigate life’s challenges with greater confidence. I believe that having a safe, supportive space to talk, reflect and feel truly heard can make a real difference.
My own experiences of travelling and exploring different cultures have taught me a great deal about resilience, connection and personal growth, and I hope to bring this understanding into my work with others.
As part of Popham Kidney Support, I’m excited to provide a safe and welcoming space where people can talk openly, reflect on their experiences and feel supported throughout their kidney journey.
Outside of my work, I love music, singing, dancing, nature and exploring new places.
Our Patrons
Mike has a long-standing commitment to public service and his local community in Swansea. Originally a research scientist with British Steel at Port Talbot, he went on to spend many years as a lecturer in computing before entering public life.
He served as a Swansea Councillor for Morriston for many years, including a period as Council Leader, and has held a number of roles with the Welsh Local Government Association. His work has focused on areas including education, social services, housing, local government and tackling social deprivation.
Mike has also played an active role in education, serving as a governor of Swansea University and a number of schools and colleges. He has also held a non-executive role within the NHS.
A lifelong supporter of his local community, Mike is passionate about sport, education and the arts, and is proud to support the work of Popham Kidney Support and its commitment to helping people affected by kidney disease.
Kev is one of Wales’ much-loved entertainment personalities, with a career spanning theatre, television, film, presenting and live events. He began his career in pantomime and has since become a popular compere and conference and after-dinner speaker, as well as an accomplished actor.
His extensive theatre credits include productions with Fluellen Theatre Company and Wales Theatre Company, alongside appearances with National Theatre Wales. He has also featured in television and film, including the BAFTA Award-winning documentary Jack to a King and the film The Gospel of Us.
A lifelong Swansea City supporter, Kev is a familiar face at the Swansea.com Stadium, where he helps entertain supporters and introduce the team on match days.
Kev is also passionate about supporting his community and is an active fundraiser, patron and supporter of several local charities, including Popham Kidney Support. He is proud to support the charity and the work it does for people affected by kidney disease.
Lee Trundle is a former Swansea City FC footballer who played for the club between 2003 and 2007. He continues to have a strong connection with the club, where he works as an ambassador and youth team coach.
Lee has been a long-standing supporter of Popham Kidney Support and has been involved with the charity since its early days. He has hosted and presented at a number of charity events and continues to use his profile to help raise awareness of kidney disease and the support available to patients and their families.
As a Patron of Popham Kidney Support, Lee is passionate about supporting the charity’s work, attending events, meeting supporters and helping to raise awareness of kidney disease within the community.
His ongoing support is hugely valued by the Popham Kidney Support team, and he is proud to play a part in helping the charity make a difference to people affected by kidney disease.
Become a patron
If you would like to become a patron of Popham Kidney Support, please get in touch.
Our Ambassadors
Sian began her career at BBC Wales where she was a reporter and then presenter on BBC Wales Today and Good Evening Wales on Radio Wales.
Sian joined the BBC national news team eight years ago, and has had the key roles of both Wales Correspondent and Midlands Correspondent. During this time she has also presented BBC Breakfast, BBC Crimewatch Roadshow and Panorama.
Sian grew up in Wrexham and learnt Welsh. She has also featured on a number of programmes on S4C and is now a freelance broadcaster working across a range of projects.
IG @msswlloyd
Matt Tebbutt is a chef, presenter and author, best known for hosting the BBC’s much-loved Saturday Kitchen and Best Bites. He also co-presents Channel 4’s award-winning Food Unwrapped, exploring the food we eat and the science behind it.
Passionate about modern British cooking, Matt champions fresh, seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. He trained under some of Britain’s leading chefs and, alongside his wife Lisa, ran the acclaimed Foxhunter restaurant in Monmouthshire for many years.
Matt has also presented a range of food and travel programmes and has written several cookbooks. His love of food, Wales and the outdoors is reflected in his approach to cooking and his work.
As a Patron of Popham Kidney Support, Matt is proud to support the charity’s work, helping to raise awareness of kidney disease and promote the support available to patients and their families.
Twitter: @matt_tebbutt
Instagram: matt.tebbutt
Wyburn & Wayne are an award-winning creative duo, presenters of their own weekly show on Radio Cardiff and columnists for Cardiff Life Magazine. They are passionate ambassadors for Welsh charities and dedicate much of their time to raising awareness and funds for causes close to their hearts.
Through their partnership with Visit Cardiff, they celebrate the best of the city and represent Cardiff at events and special occasions, meeting everyone from celebrities and performers to members of the local community.
The duo are also behind a number of successful fundraising events, including RoathRocks Music Festival, The Cardiff Bake Off and the award-winning Dragged To Church, which has since been developed for the big screen.
Known for their creativity, humour and love of their community, Wyburn & Wayne are proud to support Popham Kidney Support and help raise awareness of the charity and the difference it makes to people affected by kidney disease.
The Wyburn And Wayne Show
Radio Cardiff
Cardiff Life Columnists
In Partnership With Visit Cardiff
Become a Ambassador
If you would like to become an ambassador of Popham Kidney Support, please get in touch.
