Real People. Real Stories.
Being told you have chronic kidney disease (CKD) can feel overwhelming. It is completely normal to have questions, not just about your health, but also about how it may affect your everyday life.
You may be wondering, how does dialysis work? Will I still be able to travel, work or take care of my family?
To help you find answers, we have gathered some stories from real people who chose Peritoneal Dialysis (PD). Their experiences may help you understand what to expect and feel more confident about your own choices.
1. Partnering with your caregiver
How you and your loved ones can support each other through PD.
As a caregiver and a wife, I would say just to always respect your partner and be there to communicate with them about the issues that they're going through.
Christina – Caregiver and Eric's spouse
2. Living your everyday life
Keeping up with work or personal goals.
I'm always trying to stay busy, you know. I work on e-commerce, I work with jewelry, I dabble into TikTok.
Justin – PD patient
Traveling while on PD
I feel like doing PD will be a lot better because you are always on your own time, you can set up in your hotel, set up wherever you are staying...
Justin – PD patient
Having pets at home
When you first get diagnosed and you're thinking about your pets at home. Just know that they can be a part of your life.
Eric - PD Patient
3. Staying active (sports and hobbies)
Tips for staying mobile, fit, and in control of your life.
I probably walk 7 to 10 miles a day. I need that exertion to properly sleep at night. Being outside, I think, is so important for your mental well-being.
Eric – PD patient
4. Getting started with PD
What to expect when getting your dialysis catheter.
The General process of going PD starts by the placement of a catheter.
Chris – former PD patient – Transplant Recipient
Talking to others about your kidney disease
My wife has showed me how important it is to let everybody know what I was going through and what was happening in my life, so she's definitely been super helpful in helping me find the words to tell certain people.
Eric – PD patient
5. Preparing for the transplant
Understanding the next steps if transplant is part of your journey.
Being on a transplant list … it’s gonna be a journey… Just be patient, you will get there.
Chris – former PD patient- Transplant recipient
6. Finding your community
You're not alone — connecting with people who understand.
I would make informed decisions for yourself (about dialysis options) by reaching out to other patients - that would guide you through all of the different aspects of this journey.
Taiylor, former PD patient, Patient Advocate
7. Support, day and night
How Vantive and your care team are here for you 24/7.
That’s why we are here, to make being on PD easier for you.
Chris – former PD patient – Senior Training Specialist