We all have the power to change an impending path towards a life without proper kidney function. That road is a harsh one – it requires strength, perseverance and dare I say – a touch of heroism. But education on how to prevent kidney failure and yearly checkups with a family doctor can go a long way in preventing anyone from having to live as my mother does today.

My mom, like many, was born with two well-functioning kidneys. All through her adult life, she lived with ailments passed down from family genetics such as diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease. In addition, she smoked for a number of years and like many people – she avoided doctors at all cost. This avoidance finally caught up with her and in her late forties, she had no choice but to begin seeing doctors on a regular basis – her body simply could not go on without it.

I remember well when the signs of kidney failure began to show on my mom – swollen legs (‘caused by fluid retention), drowsiness, shortness of breath and fatigue. The doctors started talking about dangerous creatinine levels, and how her kidneys were no longer filtering her blood as they should. Finally, at age 56, she began dialysis treatments 3 times a week – 4.5 hours each session… and has been doing so ever since.
In the past 9 years, my mom has missed only 1 treatment. As of mid-June of this year, she has received a total of 1346 treatments – that accumulates to 252 24-hour straight days – almost a full year plugged into a machine. This is the reason why I believe that dialysis patients require a touch of heroism. Imagine for just a minute that no matter what the weather, a flu, your birthday or a holiday, no matter what life brings your way; you HAD to be at school and/or work every Monday, Wednesday and Friday… no calling in sick, no pulling the covers over your head and sleeping… no exceptions. It is a grueling schedule, one filled with endless hours of staring at white walls or sleeping to ward off the boredom.

Like with any story, there is always a bright side. Should you be one of those who are unable to avoid renal failure or are living with it today, know that you are not alone and that there are many, MANY people here to help you: the nephrology team at our hospitals, family & friends, and organizations like The Kidney Foundation.

Make sure to take time to learn about all of The Kidney Foundation’s services – they are there to help. Stay active and participate in social events when you feel well – get the rest you need when you don’t. Know that having renal kidney failure is not a death sentence. You can live a very healthy and satisfying life. With proper planning, my mom, my sister and I have been to Bermuda, Graceland and Walt Disney to name a few places, all in the past 9 years. Ask my mom today how she feels… and she’ll tell you she is living some of the best years of her life.