I have been on dialysis almost a year now. The rage, sorrow, and hopelessness lie quietly in the shadows, and come out at unexpected times. Yesterday I was in the checkout line at Target and the woman next to me said, "oh your arm looks awful - are you on dialysis?".
I said no. And walked away. Crying. (The paper shredder can wait another week.)
Seriously...My heart lept up into my throat when I read and saw the pic. I know what dialysis looks like. I have seen those arms while working as a nurse in the ICU. I have ran continuous dialysis on hemodynamically unstable patients. You are dealing with the TWO MOST HIGH MAINTAINENCE chronic conditions that exist. My heart, my will, my try go out to you Dear One. Love you...chin up.
Wow ... that's all I'll say on the photo, other than to say hang in there, seriously. You are such a valuable member of the diabetes online community! I don't know if you've considered it, but if you haven't, there is an organization called "Matching Donors" which is a nonprofit organization that aims to pair individuals who have a living donor but are incompatible with others who are in the same boat so both can have a successful living donor. I don't know a lot, but I do know that in the early days, they made news because of the cost (as I understand it, they'll waive the fee for most who ask) to be listed, but that was a number of years ago. Still, you can visit this organization at http://www.matchingdonors.com for more information. Keep us posted. By the way, a big virtual hug from me to you!
I have had Type 1 diabetes since 1974. In August of 2010, I endured a life-threatening health crisis resulting in acute kidney failure. I started dialysis in October, 2010 and it's was the biggest challenge of my life.
Then, on January 12, 2012, I was told by my nephrologist that my labs had improved to the point where I no longer needed the treatments. It has been the biggest joy of my life.
The support and love sent my way by the diabetes online community has been incredible.
14 comments:
Oh Kathy,
Hugs - hugs - and more hugs.
I'm so sorry.
Hugs!!!
(((HUGS))) may the love of God be wrapped around you like a hug.
{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{hugs}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}
I am really sorry also Kathy. Sending some hugs for you.
You are a star. (((((hugs)))))) and a (((((Dixie hug)))))
Big Hugs! And more big hugs!
Oh, my friend. Much love and many hugs.
((( hugs ))) to you, my friend.
Seriously...My heart lept up into my throat when I read and saw the pic. I know what dialysis looks like. I have seen those arms while working as a nurse in the ICU. I have ran continuous dialysis on hemodynamically unstable patients. You are dealing with the TWO MOST HIGH MAINTAINENCE chronic conditions that exist. My heart, my will, my try go out to you Dear One. Love you...chin up.
Wow ... that's all I'll say on the photo, other than to say hang in there, seriously. You are such a valuable member of the diabetes online community! I don't know if you've considered it, but if you haven't, there is an organization called "Matching Donors" which is a nonprofit organization that aims to pair individuals who have a living donor but are incompatible with others who are in the same boat so both can have a successful living donor. I don't know a lot, but I do know that in the early days, they made news because of the cost (as I understand it, they'll waive the fee for most who ask) to be listed, but that was a number of years ago. Still, you can visit this organization at http://www.matchingdonors.com for more information. Keep us posted. By the way, a big virtual hug from me to you!
You are so strong. You are doing what is most important and that is taking care of you. Huge and warm wishes. Lauren
Lots of strength, courage, determination, and love to you Kathy.
Oh Kathy, I can't say anything. God bless you, I just can't imagine. I'll pray for you.
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