hello

[iketchum]

My name is Bill . I am from midcoast Maine. I have severe diabetes. My kidneys gave out 8/8/08. I started dialysis in the va hospital in Augusta. I had a fistula put in last April, but its kind of small so I am having problems with the needles. I also have retinopathy so I lose my vision often. I am 47 years old, married, and have an 18 year old son. I am overwhelmed by whats happening. I am trying to stay working but its difficult. I hope to get advice from anyone going trough this.

[Chris]

Hi Bill,
I am also a diabetic with the usual diabetic eye complications, neuropathy in the legs, and renal failure. However, I had a kidney and pancreas transplant because my diabetes was hard to control even with a pump and not knowing when my blood sugar was dropping. While on dialysis, I pushed my self repeatedly to return to college as a full time student and this was a bad idea. I would be worn out and cause other problems. The more I pushed myself the more time I was in the hospital. Finally got the hint that I had to slow down a little and not push myself as hard. I still push myself to do things because I don't like to slow someone else down either and it is like I am getting something accomplished. I find this site to be very helpful and wish it was around when I was on dialysis.
Chris

[G-Ma]

 
You came to the right place.  I had lost vision and was helped by a fantastic eye surgeon and I hope you get that help as well.

[Chris]

Depending where you are, you might have a state agency that would help with your low vision at work and home with the use of technology and adaptive equipment. In Illinois we have the Department of Rehabilitation Services, DBlind Service Division. They got me computer software that enlarges the screen on the pc, alter the colors, speaks whats on the screen, then there is a device that helps me read textbooks, another portible device that hels me read for example small pront on bottles of medication in the drug store, sent me to a doctor who only specializes in seeing patients with visual impairment. who then uses different lenses and other types of optical equipment to help me see. Something to Google for in your area to help at work and home. I also purchase items from low vision companies that have catalogs if you want their links.

[flip]

Welcome, Bill. I'm glad you found us, we're all stumbling through this together. I've been to Maine before and think it's absolutely beautiful. If you ever decide to attend one of our meetings, please bring lobsters.
 

[pelagia]

There are many here who can offer advice from experience.  Some of the rest of us can offer an ear to listen.   

[Bajanne]

Welcome to our community!   I am sorry for the circumstances that brought you here, but happy that you found us.  As you have probably found out already, this is a very helpful place for all of us facing the renal challenge, as I call it.  This is a very special website that has officially become a genuine family - caring, sharing (and daring - 'Twirl')!  You will find very important information here.  One of our favourite sayings around here is "Knowledge is Power!".   But that is not all we do.  We also provide a very needed outlet for ranting, raving, raging or venting.  Cybershoulders and cyberhugs also abound here.   And there is also lots of fun.  So please read all you can, and post all you can.  We want to know how things are going with you. After all, you're family now!


Bajanne, Moderator

[Joe Paul]

Welcome Bill, good to have you aboard.

[monrein]

  Sorry about the circumstances that bring you to this forum but I hope you'll find this site to be as helpful as I have.

[willieandwinnie]

Bill. You have found the best site for support and information. My husband is also a veteran and he has not worked since 2001. Ask all the questions you have and we will answer. I know how overwhelmed you must feel  but we can help you through the rough stuff. 

[boxman55]

Hello Bill, good to have you aboard. Sorry about the suddeness of your kidney problems but know that here at IHD we can help you with any questions you might have. Please check out the various forums and use the search tool to help in finding out about anything on your mind

Boxman, Moderator

[Lori1851]

Glad you found this site. I had a son on dialysis and he was on disability. Have you looked into that if work is getting too much? Dustin's went through really quick. Lots of godd ppl on this site goin through what your goin through. Ask questions they are great about answering.

Lori/Indiana

[Katonsdad]

Welcome Bill ......Boy are you at the right place ..
I was a diabetic with many complications . eyes kidneys etc etc ....
I had a transplant of Kidney/Pancreas but spent 3 years on dialysis first.
I worked for all but 1 year and 4 months of that were afetr my transplant .

I have a 7 year old son who runs me ragged  and enjoy every but of it ..
Feel free to ask questions.  Again welcome

Katonsdad

[kitkatz]

There are answers out there for you. Keep asking questions until you get what you need. Welcome to the site!




kitkatz,moderator