Patient Stories – Making a Decision
Meet seven individuals in need of kidney replacement therapy who openly share about personal experiences with different therapy options. Hear the advantages and disadvantages from their point of view and learn about their individual reasons for transitioning from one therapy to another. Their stories serve to provide a glimpse into the different therapy options of peritoneal dialysis, hemodialysis whether in center or at home, and transplantation. Discover how these individuals have incorporated their therapy into their everyday lives.
Annette
(Transplantation - CAPD)
Annette received a kidney donation from her mother but faced complications. To keep her flexibility, she made the decision to pursue Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis (CAPD), a home dialysis treatment. Over the past 8 years, she has effectively managed PD at home, experiencing a fulfilling life with treatment.
Christine
(Transplantation – APD)
Christine received her first kidney transplant at the age of 23 and got another one from within her family 27 years later, that lasted about 15 years. Seeking independence, she subsequently chose Automated Peritoneal Dialysis (APD), which she can perform at home during the night. She has been performing APD for almost 7 years now, which also enables her to pursue her passion for traveling together with her husband.
Gerlinde
(CAPD)
Gerlinde was diagnosed with kidney disease in her childhood, but her kidney function remained stable for many years. When her residual kidney function declined, she had to decide on a treatment option. She opted for Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis (CAPD), which enables her to lead a flexible and active life with her family.
Michael
(In-center HD – CAPD – Transplantation)
Michael initially chose center-based Hemodialysis (HD) but faced challenges managing clinic visits and work. As a consequence, he switched to Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis (CAPD). Later, he eagerly seized the opportunity for a kidney transplant, which enhanced his level of activity.
Frank
(CAPD – APD – In-center HD – HHD)
Frank initially began with Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis (CAPD) before he later transitioned to Automated Peritoneal Dialysis (APD), which is performed during the night. Due to medical reasons, he had to switch to center-based Hemodialysis. However, Frank ultimately found a solution in Home Hemodialysis (HHD), which allowed him to spend more quality time with his family and pursue his hobbies.
Katrin
(In-center HD – Transplantation – HHD)
Katrin was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at 14 and eventually needed dialysis at 26. She started with center-based Hemodialysis (HD), before she underwent two kidney transplants, both of which failed after approximately 4 years. Following this, she learned about Home Hemodialysis (HHD), which provided her physical relief and flexibility in managing her time.
Sieglinde
(Transplantation – PD –
In-center HD)
Sieglinde initially had a kidney transplant before switching to dialysis. She tried Peritoneal Dialysis (PD) but later had to reconsider her options. Ultimately, she chose center-based Hemodialysis (HD) because she feels more comfortable being under professional supervision during the treatment.