How do you feel

[Cookiienanaari32]

Hello im new to this dialysis how are you suppose to feel .... sometimes i feel sad other days i feel over whelmed im scared i have 3 girls and a husband its a lot im going through but i gotta stay strong

[Bassetmommer NKF Ambassador]

Hi Cookie... love the name and welcome. Everyone experiences ups and downs. What you are feeling is totally natural and understandable. It is a lot, especially dialysis to get used to. It is a life changer but in time, you will find a new normal. There is no "supposed to feel way". The fact that you have reached out says you are a warrior and are willing to fight the good fight.

Along with this community, there is a peer mentor program designed for Kidney patients. It is a place to have a mentor assigned to you who will be there for you specifically with your questions and support. We do not replace your medical team, but are patients who are trained to listen and be supportive....because we walk the walk.

It is free and they will match you with someone who has similar issues. It is really a nice thing to do and know someone is in your corner.

Here is the number 855-653-7337 and here is the website to sign up kidney.org/patients/peers

[Cookiienanaari32 in reply to Bassetmommer]

Thank you so much cause i found out on the 2nd i was going to have to go on dialysis im so scared im having the fistua put in in june i have 3 girls and a husband ages 11 7 and 2 its so frustrating at times cause i be depressed a lot taking my meds so i hear it makes you really weak is that true

[KidneyCoach NKF Ambassador in reply to Cookiienanaari32]

ESRD I can be complicated but understandable. It IS scary. Allow yourself to feel the fear. Then move forward with educating yourself, this alone can help dissipate the fear. Try kidneyschool.org, AAKP, NKF. They all have great info. Also the best book I've found is Help, I Need Dialysis! You can find it at homedialysiscentral.org. it's also on Amazon. Its $6-8 so very doable. Been a CKD person for 40 years on dialysis over 17. Educating yourself is EMPOWERING! Have more q questions, ask away.

Kidneys have an impact on every major system in the body from cardiovascular to skin. Kidneys produce a hormone that signals production of red blood cells. When kidneys don't work that hormone is not sent this anemia. The weakness is often described washout after treatments. This is usually result of trying to remove extra fluid too fast. Kidneys work 168 hrs per week yet standard in clinic dialysis only replaces 12 hours of that. Of course the body will feel exhausted. Incremental dialysis is helpful for some. I am a firm believer in more dialysis is better once that time arrives. More questions ask away. Private message me if you like. Blessings

[Cookiienanaari32 in reply to KidneyCoach]

Ok you just gave me so much hope and understanding thank you so much how do i private message you

[KidneyCoach NKF Ambassador in reply to Cookiienanaari32]

Just click on my username it will take you to my profile then just click on message.

[Avenger]

It is a lot. I have a husband-4 kids-15 grandchildren, and 2 great grandkids. My hardest thoughts are leaving them. I will pray for you.Cathy

[Cookiienanaari32 in reply to Avenger]

Yes it sure is and thats my biggest fear as well i will pray for you also thank you so much #kidneystrong