My doctor passed - he was the one supporting NXSTAGE!

[alrightstill]

So recently, I found out that my doctor had passed away.  I had a visit with him on Tuesday, and he passed Wednesday.  (Extremely healthy man  - but this is all besides the point).

I'm a bit worried that they will try to take me off NXSTAGE.  I've been on it since Dec. 05, and have come accustomed and absolutely love the convenience of dialyzing when I please.  Already, before I even found out he had passed, there was a lady at the clinic trying to talk me into doing 8 hr treatments - at night - every other night - on a Fresenius machine.  I kept saying "no thanks, no thanks.. " and once my reg. nurse saw I was uncomfortable, thats when she (my regular nurse) told me my doctor had passed.

Maybe I'm just digging too deep into it and one has nothing to do with the other, I'm just worried some changes will be taking place that I won't be too keen on.

Another may be that I have to go to the hospital once a week to get an iron infusion???  Our district doesn't allow patients to give it to themselves at home anymore (or maybe it's just this company??  )  My doc was going to override this.. but now.. 

Sorry.  Had to just get this out somewhere and I knew you guys would understand.   

[Joe Paul]

Sorry to hear about your doc. I hope things don't change for you, change sucks!

[Sluff]

Sorry to hear about your Doctor. Don't you have a choice what machine you use??

[alrightstill]

  Thank you guys.

I should have a choice what machine I use -- but since he was the only one in the group really pushing NXSTAGE, I have a feeling they may try to get rid of the program altogether.

I suppose if that happens I will try to find another unit within the vicinity (or at least less than 50 miles away) that supports NXSTAGE. 

[goofynina]

You would think they would take your wants and needs into consideration, like find another doc. that can help you with this, i am sure you are not the only patient on NxStage (are you)   Dont give up my friend.  It will work out for you, you may have to fight a little for it, but hey, its your life and you know what you want, Go for it!!!  You have us here behind you 100%  Please keep us posted as to what they intend to do and you intend to do right back to them   Good Luck and may your Doctor Rest in Peace... 

[Black]

What's new?  Still on NxStage?  How's the new Doc?

If your clinic wants to take away the NxStage, don't hesitate to call your NxStage Rep.  They can find another clinic offering their machine and you can transfer.  Mike and I had to go 200 miles away.  He drives that distance once a month, but it is worth it.  Besides, some of the local clinics are already considering adding a NxStage program soon.