It's a Date with the machine

[devon]

I had my appointment with the neph yesterday.  In June, we had scheduled tentatively to start dialysis in Mid-August and my most recent labs hinted that perhaps I could push it another month, to mid-September. in spite of my eternal optimism, he said it was time to start dialysis.  Like NEXT WEEK. 

So, like a convict reporting to the jail, I have a week to get my affairs in order and he expects to see me in the hospital next Thursday morning for the first of three treatments.  I should be out on Saturday morning if all goes well.   After that, I can do my time on M-W-F afternoons.

I told my boss this morning.  He was pleased that I won't miss too much work.  I'm working on a project right now that has the attention of the Board of Directors so he's obviously worried about that!  I assured him that I shouldn't be out more than those two days and should be back to work on Monday.  The project is supposed to be completed by the end of August.  I think I can do this in spite of everything going on.  Work actually will be a distraction from the medical issues.

Well, I fought the battle royal.  The doc has been supportive by he says I'm pushing the envelope much too far.  I'm risking ending up in the ER and with some very serious problems aside from ESRD. 

I try to look to the "bright side".  He says my weight gain has been due to fluids that my poor little overworked kidneys can't process.  The explains the gain of 5 pounds in two months in spite of good nutrition and exercise.  I am relieved to hear that because I thought I was doing something wrong!  The doc figures I'll lose weight during dialysis. Good NEWS for me!  So, dialysis is now part of my weight reduction program.  Sweet!  I'll focus on that rather than... well, you know... all that "other stuff".

Anyway, that's the news.  I let you know more as it happens. Gotta get back to work to get things finished up.

-Devon

[willieandwinnie]

devon  I'm so sorry. You have keep dialysis at bay for quite sometime. I was hoping you would continue that trend. You know that we are all here for you.  Hope your project goes smoothly and your first dialysis treatment goes well. Please keep us updated, we will be sitting on the edge of our seats waiting to hear. Take care. 

[Sunny]

You managed to hold it off for a long time. Congratulations to that.
Now your starting on a new journey and it sounds like you will adapt very well.
Good luck.

[pelagia]

I hope it goes well Devon. 

[jbeany]

Once you start dialysis, the 5 pounds and probably a bit more will come off in a hurry.  Just remember to take it as easy as possible - the first month on dialysis is pretty rough on the body.  The crashing as they attempt to find a dry weight will wear you right out.  Hope it goes well for you.  

[flip]

Hang in there, Devon. The first month can be a bit tough, but it soon becomes much easier.

[monrein]

Like everyone says Devon, the toughest part is the beginning as there's so very much for your body and you to get used to but it will get easier, at least more familiar as time goes on.
All the best and keep us posted.

[kitkatz]

Good luck and God speed.  Ask questions and be prepared to have to get used to it all.

[rose1999]

Wishing you all the best, you have a great attitiude to it all and I hope things go well, god bless 

[twirl]

when you have problems we are here for you
do not watch the clock
good luck

[stauffenberg]

I just used to bring a few books with me to each dialysis session and read steadily until the end, apart from a very few unavoidable interruptions from the nurses.  I used to try to convince myself that the only thing wrong with my life was that I had to drive for 20 minutes or so to sit in a special chair in a special place to read, and then drive 20 minutes back home afterward, rather than having the convenience of just sitting at home and reading for the same amount of time.  I almost believed it.

[flip]

Maybe that's my problem, Stauffenberg, I still do believe it.

[Zach]

Maybe that's my problem, Stauffenberg, I still do believe it.

And I still believe it, too.