Dialysis is upon me!

[MSWwv]

So, coming out of a not so great weekend.

On Friday, I had my routine bloodwork done. That evening, my nephrologists office called and asked that I go to the hospital for admission. After laying in there all weekend, I discovered that I was having a tunnel placed in my chest as a temporary access for dialysis.

My GFR has been bouncing between 10-15 for about 6 months, so I knew this was likely inevitable, but I was hoping to hold off (beginning the testing phase for living donors and wanted to go straight to transplant).

So bottom line, my tunnel was "installed" and I had my first round of dialysis yesterday . . . only 2 hours for the first one. I am needless to say fairy bummed out this morning.

[Bassetmommer NKF Ambassador]

HI and I am sorry. Just curious what your GFR was they decided to put you on dialysis. Was there other indicators? Did you feel sick or really bad. I wonder because I am fighting going on dialysis just because.... MY numbers are not that low yet, however but I still feel the push from my neph.

[MSWwv in reply to Bassetmommer]

My GFR was a 9 - but had been for a couple of months.

[Marvin8]

I can only imagine how bummed out you must feel. Out of curiosity, how did you feel after dialysis....emotions aside?

[MSWwv in reply to Marvin8]

Really felt no different. I am hoping that my energy level increases though as I continue treatment.

[Ziggydoodah]

Welcome to dialysis. I wont lie the next few months will be one step forward and 2 back. You will experience every emotion going. I felt a total failure when I started dialysis. Do I feel any better? Well I have better stamina and I can still run rings around people at work but I still don't feel great. What you will do is mourn for your life before dialysis. But you know what, like your whole kidney journey, you will just get on with it, like the warrior you are!!! Reach out to people on here when you are having "down days". Talk to your fellow dialysis patients and try and make friends. One benefit I hadnt considered, was being surrounded by people in the same boat. I felt no-one understood my illness. Friends and family did their best to be supportive. However you soon realise you are not alone and you even start feeling grateful, when you hear other peoples situations. You also have hope of a live donor. Keep going my friend.

[MSWwv in reply to Ziggydoodah]

Thanks for the words of support. I have a little anxiety, but I know this is all just part of it.

[Jamok]

I’m sorry you’re going through this. My GFR is at 10 or was 2 1/2 months ago but since then I’ve had some health setbacks and I’m worried that the next time they check it they’re going to want to put me on dialysis. I am on hold for a cadaver transplant due to recent allergy to steroids until I can see an allergist in December. I’m hoping and praying I make it but if I have to start dialysis then so be it I guess I have to focus on it is a lifesaver, not a failure on my part. I hope this is temporary and you get your kidney very very soon.

[MSWwv in reply to Jamok]

I am just telling myself this is all just part of this journey! Just rolling with the punches.

[Tkt3699]

I'm sorry! I'm still trying to hold off!

[AENEASavc]

It's a roller coaster of ups and downs. It's challenging and exhausting. I was blessed to receive the gift of life as I was near death. I hope a kidney will come to you soon. Hang in there. It's tough but keep the faith.

[RoxanneKidney]

Hang in there, friend. I'm sure you will feel better with less poison in your body. Prays to you.

[MSWwv in reply to RoxanneKidney]

So far the only downside (aside from giving up 12-15 hours a week) is that on my dialysis days I am really tired. Completely wiped out. Hoping to see some benefits soon.