Dear sjcjudy: I was the one that pushed for PD, knowing that it is easier on the body. I sat through all of the dialysis classes with Chuck and I know I could do the basics. I don’t get involved, however, as my husband is the kind of person that if I do it once it’s my job forever. The problem is when there is a problem. My husband is an electrical engineer brainiac, and can usually straighten things out, but even he has had to call for help in the middle of the night on several occasions. To my surprise, he decided to switch over to manual PD several months ago (because he felt he woke up every time a new bag of solution started, and wasn’t getting good sleep). I also think that the idea that he was tethered caused him anxiety. He seems to prefer the manual method and it makes me happy because it’s something I could handle if necessary. I’m also a CKD stage four patient and, at least at this point, feel I’d rather go in three times a week if and when I need dialysis. I still drive, and enjoy driving, but there is also a County service that will pick you up and take you there and back. I don’t always look at my mail connect so feel free to private message me.

@sjcjudy Welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect. I have been on manual PD since Sept 2022. For me, it was a simple decision, as my "prescription" at the beginning, and continuing on to today, is not as dramatic as other patients. I now am using icodextrin, one bag a day, done at night, and dwelling for 11-12 hours.

I do not need assistance. When supplies are delivered, there have been times of struggle to place everything. It is my preference that the driver leaves things on my porch and I move things into my space at my timeline. But if the boxes are too heavy, I can open them and remove bags to lighten the load! So, there is definitely a way around it all.

Has your husband started dialysis, yet?
Ginger