Question of the week!

[YollyD_NKF]

What advice do you have for talking with your friends, family and coworkers about being on dialysis?

[kidneystories]

Hi Holly! Show up when you are scheduled. This misses add up over time and can be very dangerous. If you do miss, make up the time, even if you have to go to a different dialysis center.

[Apandah in reply to kidneystories]

There is a good booklet "LIFE ON DIALYSIS" from kidney.org

I find it useful.

[Hidden]

From the experience we went through, I can offer this: be straightforward and honest about the situation; talk about it with confidence and do not be ashamed; let your friends know they can ask you questions about it; and don't be hesitant to let them know that you may have good days and bad days both physically and emotionally but you're still the same person.

[MPK0706 in reply to Hidden]

Yes,I agree! I also took pictures of the dialysis machine and explained how it works!!!

[Ladybug_05]

Be open and encourage them to talk about it. Everyone is going to process this new part of you differently, and normalizing it as much as possible by talking about it and involving family members and friends can ease their minds about what looks like a complicated process. My friends thought it was taboo to be in a room with me while I did my manual exchanges, but I would just hand them a mask and offer for them to watch the process. I also answer questions freely and honestly. It makes everything easier and your support system isn't able to help you if you don't let them in!

[mhawk123]

Not everyone will be interested in your journey with dialysis....Pick and chose your closest friends to tell...Your family can be a support for you and educating them on the steps will be helpful in case you need an extra hand......