After months of happy (I use the term loosely) home haemodialysis I found myself with some time on my hands so started to read through the various, all useful Facebook sites relating to kidney failure and dialysis. Surprised by the knowledge sharing that was taking place I kept on reading. Not only were there multiple pages but some were interesting too (imagine that)! The only problem being, they were only reactive comments to messages people were brave enough to post, and there are lots of things we don’t like to talk openly about. No stories of early morning melt downs which result in giving oneself a good talking to or the elation of going a full session with no alarms sounding. It was then that I had an idea to spill the beans…
With a little encouragement from my husband and an agreeable smile from my cat Frank I got started. I want to be able to pass on my experiences in a way that someone, at whatever stage of kidney failure could relate to. Not written by a doctor but written by someone who has been through it…correction, written by someone who is going through it.
I’m 9 months into dialysis now but managed to keep a note of things that happened during my ‘blip of health’ and I’m hoping that you might find my diaries useful, funny or even interesting. If that’s the case then I’ll dialyse happy knowing someone hasn’t had to trawl through every Facebook page hoping the subject of how to deal with an overly talkative neighbour patient, where does you libido go and what it really feels like when you collapse after taking too much fluid off.
Everyone’s journey is different, I don’t claim to be a writer of a medical journal but my diaries might just help with some of the other stuff you won’t pick up from a nurse.
Diaries of Lea 
You are amazing. Wish I was in the UK to give you a hug xx
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Absolutely brilliant to do this as my hubby does not like talking about. It and he never complains will always say he is fine when I know deep down he really is not getting all the information. I can helps me to support him better he also has other issues going on hoping to hear soon to see what plan of action they are going to take . well done Girl x
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Thanks Ange. I know how hard it was for me to find proper information. Information from a patients point of view. I hope some of what I write helps you and your husband. It gets easier, I promise
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A brilliant idea lovely lady, you are inspirational! Cant wait to read the next installment 🙂
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My wonderfully niece you are so brave you have the most beautiful smile biggest heart and you share your love with everyone, you can light a room up with your smile we don’t see how hard it’s for you as you never moan never say how bad you feel deep down you must be crying but on the outside you just smile you are so lovely so proud of you just think of those sheepes how we laughed love you xxxx xxx
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Well done girl, you are a truly brave, inspirational lady. I’m sure this will help others which is a wonderful thing to do xx
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I think you’re a brave young lady, going through what you do on a daily basis but also willing to share your experiences to ease others daily battles. You’re a beautiful example of inner strength, determination and true courage. I hope your diaries help others. I’m proud to call you my daughter “Dad” xx
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