Navigating Life Choices: My Journey with Dialysis
5/9/20261 min read
Reflecting on Milestones
Just yesterday marked a remarkable occasion in my life—the celebration of my 60th wedding anniversary. May 8, 2026, will forever be etched in my memory not only as a testament to love and commitment but also as the day I underwent an important medical procedure: the insertion of a peritoneal dialysis catheter laparoscopically. Turning 85 years old, I have lived with just one kidney since birth, and while it has served me well, it is now showing signs of wear.
Choosing the Right Path
Considering my medical options was no easy task. I faced a decision between two forms of dialysis: peritoneal dialysis at home or hemodialysis at a clinic. The notion of managing my treatment from the comfort of my own home was enticing. Home dialysis seems particularly appealing as it allows for greater flexibility in my daily routine. Hemodialysis would have necessitated traveling to a clinic three times a week for sessions lasting between three and five hours each, an option I preferred to avoid if possible.
Post-Surgery Reflections and Hope
Now, on May 9, 2026, I find myself in recovery after the surgery, feeling surprisingly well, thanks in part to the prescribed pain medication. The initial feelings of discomfort are normal after such a procedure, yet I remain hopeful that the peritoneal dialysis will aid my kidney function positively and restore some semblance of normalcy to my life.
I grasp the feelings of uncertainty during this transitional period, however, I am grateful for the advancements in medicine that allow patients like me to consider alternatives to traditional methods of kidney treatment. Living with one kidney has shaped my life, and while this new chapter brings challenges, it also offers the promise of a more manageable health journey.
As I reflect on the years of marriage and the journey of life, I recognize that every milestone, both joyful and daunting, contributes to my rich tapestry of experience. My hope is that this new dialysis approach will yield successful results, letting me continue cherishing precious moments with my loved ones for years to come.