Living on dialysis

[Thomas1967]

I'm 49 years old and have been on hemodialysis for 6 years as a result of a birth defect. I'm not diabetic nor do I have high blood pressure. I just got a new AV Fistula after my first one got too big. I'm on for 5 hours, 3 days a week and drive myself back & forth to the kidney center unless I'm not able to. It often takes me about 4 hours to recover from each treatment. I'm in bed early the day of the treatment and take my time the day after. I don't work, but wouldn't mind a sit-down part time job for a few hours a week.

[Arleendodson]

I go to dialysis three days a week and I'm 64. Two years ago I got an ammonia working with kids and it affected my transplant that I had for 24 years. Hard to watch the fluid intake and I have lost almost 60 pounds trying to get on the list for another kidney. I can't see me doing dialysis the rest of my life. I've had to start working I get tired, and I see your church so if I drink too much the fluid goes to my lungs and I get to shortness of breath which I don't remember having when I first started dialysis in 1991. I pray that I get another kidney Sunday so that I can see my second grandchild is born. Life is not easy I don't drink I don't smoke but having polycystic kidneys it affected both my kidneys and I had to have them removed in 1994. I've had a lot of trouble with my fistulas and now I have one in each arm . God bless you and good luck.Arleen dodson

[Hidden in reply to Arleendodson]

Wow I read your story I am amazed by your resilience. Keep blessing the world by sharing your story.

[Arleendodson]

I shouldn't complain I have four hours Monday Wednesday Friday but I am diabetic and have I have a question take care you can write me if you want my email is Dracula 318 @ AOL.com

[Thomas1967 in reply to Arleendodson]

Sure, what is your question?

[Hidden]

You are awesome hang in there something will come to light as far as your health and work