I had just given a presentation entitled "Caregiver Burden in Home Hemodialysis" at the University of Missouri's 33rd Annual Dialysis Conference, when Melinda Archide RN walked up to say hello. Later, a whole group of nurses from the Northwest Kidney Centers Home Dialysis Training Unit stopped by: Sarah Rassa RN, Theresa, and several others.
What a wonderful flashback to these dedicated nurses who held our hands and walked us through those first tenuous weeks of Home Dialysis Training! Melinda and Sarah were the nurses who trained Steve and me in doing our own Home Dialysis. For me, they were our lifelines. Patient, careful, complete: there was no question too ridiculous, never a fear too petty. All of our concerns were addressed with full consideration.
Several nurses involved in home dialysis came foreward after hearing Steve's story in my presentation to say, "This is why we do what we do."
Thank you to all the Home Dialysis nurses for doing what you do! Home Dialysis - and your consistent reassurance and support - makes it possible! You improve the length and quality of life for people on dialysis. I will be forever in your debt.
Take care,
Linda Gromko, MD
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