Dialysis Does Not Have To Be the End

Twenty years ago I was treated with an antibiotic that damaged my kidneys. Within a couple of years of the antibiotics it was necessary for me to have dialysis treatments. After a couple of years my husband and I were trained to do the hemodialysis treatments and were able to perform them every other night at home.

I was put on a waiting list for a transplant. I was called a few years later to receive a cadaver kidney. I was transplanted but rejected that kidney before I left the hospital. I went back on dialysis. The next year my daughter gave me a kidney. I kept her generous gift for six years but had to stop taking the anti-rejection drugs when I developed Lymphoma caused by the drugs. Because I had to stop the drugs I lost the kidney. Again, I continued dialysis.

I went back to school and received a degree in Computer Sciences. I was hired by the County of San Diego. That was 13 years ago. I am still on dialysis at home and have been promoted several times. I am now a Principal Admin Analyst. I refuse to let this renal failure hold me back. By taking responsibility for my own health and with the true dedication of my husband and family, I have been able to stay off of disability and make a good life for my family. I have been "cancer-free" for 6 years. I now have 3 grown children, 4 grandchildren and 5 rescued dogs.

Submitted by Anonymous

Overcoming