Support group needed for in-laws

[politicalcmiller]

My 72 year old father in law was diagnosed with kidney failure and undergoes dialysis every other day. My mother in law googled recently and found information out where she believes he only has 2-3 years left of living. I am trying to find them a support group, a hotline, something or someone that they can reach out to in order to discuss their concerns. They are terrible advocates for themselves. They are currently spending the winter in Venice, Florida (West Coast). Any suggestions or helpful hints you all could provide would be greatly appreciated.

[cs65 NKF Ambassador]

The National Kidney Foundation has a hotline they can call. Look on their website for the number.

[peewee2574 in reply to cs65]

Keep your spirits up. I am 92 and have been on dialysis for 10 years. Adjustment can be difficult. Take it a day at a time.

[politicalcmiller in reply to peewee2574]

Thank you so much for this response. Blessings to you for such success! I hope your success can gift a boost of hope to my father in law.

[mingmiley in reply to peewee2574]

What an encouragement to hear that you are 92 and been on dialysis 10 yrs already! May the Lord bless you more and more!

[KelliC_NKF in reply to cs65]

They can call our NKF Cares helpline at 1-855-653-2273 for information and resources. However, we are not aware of any formal support groups for family. They are welcome to join this group as I am sure there are family and caregivers on here who would be happy to support them. I would also suggest they talk with the social worker at his clinic to see if there are any local resources or support. It may also help for your mother in law to be involved in discussions about his dialysis treatment and plan of care. She can request to speak with the entire dialysis team to learn more and address some of her concerns.

[Jessi1027]

I have been doing dialysis for many years since i was 6 years old I am now in my 30s. I believe a person can live a good quality of life at any age. As long as he is in good health, no heart problems or other medical issues going on with him he can live a long productive life. Everybody reacts differently to dialysis. Just keep a positive attitude and make sure he is following the renal diet. Talk with the nephrologist, social worker, dietician, etc. If anybody they should have the right answers for you. Good luck to you all.

[politicalcmiller in reply to Jessi1027]

Thank you so much Jessi for your kind words. Blessings to you in your hard work and dedication to living a wonderful life. I appreciate you!

[LoisDuncan]

There are many of us living years on dialysis 6 myself and I have seen some amazing things even those in poor health who want to live are successful some in there 80 and 90. Quality of life is important we try to work with our Dietitian nurse and Dr. There are support groups available I found those first so if one is to put a little effort in I believe the information is available.the national kidney foundation website has a support group the Dr Nurse can refer one if they ask the social worker is a great advocate.

[mingmiley]

There's an gentleman in our kidney Ctr, he's been on dialysis 31 yrs, he is about 70 now. If nothing major going on, a person can be on dialysis a long time.