Author: helenj1999
Do you know?
Do you know what your kidneys do? Ever really thought about the real you Two small organs, shaped like beans Do you ever think what they really mean? They filter fluids, 200 litres every day Produce vitamin D, but not vitamin K Manufacture Epo, to produce red cells Without it anaemia makes you feel[…]
Better the Devil you know?
I suppose it’s human nature when diagnosed with a serious chronic illness to compare one’s self to others. Often I see posts in various renal support groups of patients stating that they feel family, friends, and work colleagues would be more understanding of their illness if they had cancer. Some even state ‘they wish they[…]
Introduction to The Seed
Cristina, the initiator of #GMKIN, asked me to write a poem about relationships developed on #GMKIN to share at #UKKW2016. When I was first diagnosed with #ESRD eight years ago there were no local kidney information support groups that I was informed about or aware of. #GMKIN helps fill that gap. I hope people enjoy[…]
To glove, or not to glove, that is the question
Recently I’ve noticed in some other renal support groups that home haemodialysis (HHD) patients state they are wearing gloves. The home environment is different from a clinical setting and I began to question why these patients were wearing gloves. Firstly let us look at the reasons clinicians wear gloves: Rationale for using medical gloves: Medical[…]
Half full or half empty?
My daughter asked me an interesting question the other day. “Is your glass half full or half empty mum?”. I thought about this and started reflecting on my life. Do I think that I’ve been dealt some unlucky cards? Well yes if I consider that not long after I separated from my daughter’s father[…]
The Message
The time has come it’s here again Where all are joined Women, children and men To celebrate and spread the word To hope we get our voices heard For you see we all share one common bond We don’t have a magic wand Some are sick, whilst loved ones see us suffer It doesn’t[…]