So far so good...

[Phil]

I havent posted in a while....but here's a update which might help someone who is about to start HD... I've been on in center HD now for 5 months...and all in all I'm getting used to it. I've got into a sort of rythm, and have managed to squeeze as much of my life around dialysis as possible. I feel great on my off day, and after a nap after my morning session I feel ok. My fistula has matured enough now, and over the past month I have had absolutely no problems regarding needles or infiltration etc etc and that on its own reduces the stress of a session by at least 50% for me!!! About a month ago for 3 straight sessions I had pressure drops (the worst feeling ever)...not sure what they were caused by....either too much weight being taken off, or not enough sleep. I go through periods of insomnia..and have a REAL problem getting to sleep....but it seems to happen for a couple of weeks every few months.
So there it is....I'm officially on the transplant list now...and HD is what is keeping me alive....so I hate it, but I'm gratefull I have this option....its not easy, but if I've learnt anything in hospital its that unfortunatley there is ALWAYS someone alot worse off...so I keep that in mind and go to my HD session smiling

[galvo]

Good onya, Phil!

[MooseMom]

I'll probably be starting HD soon, so I am particularly glad that you posted this!  Thank you for thinking of us pre-dialysis people.  I have really struggled with the idea that D is the end, that there is just no future on D.  Everytime I hear of someone going on D and surviving the experience, it gives me a little bit more confidence that there is really a future worth fighting for.  Thank you, again.

[Jean]

Good to hear from you Phil. Glad things seem to be moving along for you. I wish you speed on your transplant.