Question of the week

[YollyD_NKF]

What have you learned "along the way" that might help others? What advice would you give someone starting dialysis?

[Bobbiereed]

The very first thing and likely the most important was to write things down and keep a detailed record. You might think this is a dumb and time consuming thing, but nearly 5-years ago to the day, my son crashed into dialysis. He was then 22 years old. We endured so many issues over the course of this 5-years. On November 9, 2015 he did get his transplant from a non-related living donor and today we are nearing the end of his medical coverage through Medicare. Yes--it is only valid for 36 months post-transplant. Those things that I wrote down are coming in real handy as we move into post-Medicare and exploring the options of what healthcare and medical benefits he will have access to. You have got to remember---Transplant is a treatment and not a cure. So folks---Keep Records and you won't regret it.

[RogerAS]

Do your research for a great doctor, someone that listens and cares. It it’s not a match between you, then look again. Advice I can give about dialysis is really watch your fluid intake. I know it’s easy to say but taking off a lot of fluid really hurts the body and heart.

[Grace74]

Emotional support is very important when having to face dialysis.

[Allreadydead]

Your going to need help and that’s ok! Emotional support is crucial! Get yourself on a organ transplant list and try to remember that this is only a temporary solution.

[CGM1]

Learn about your machine and how it works! That way if someone sets it wrong you will know to tell them the problem. Watch the numbers...if it makes you sick or start having cramps you can tell them to turn it down or stop pulling fluid.

[Ronrico]

Be kind to your technicians appreciate the nurses and doctors who are caring for you sometimes your dialysis may not go well and you will need them to be looking out for you