[Koalad]

Diagnosed in 2008 after complete kidney failure

by Koalad on Thu Sep 11, 2014 8:20 pm

In September of 2008, I had been very ill and was told I needed my gall bladder removed. I went in for the outpatient procedure but nothing went as planned.

After having my blood drawn and getting the results, the doctors told me I was in complete kidney failure. My creatinine level was 19 and my potassium level was 8.2! I was immediately put on emergency dialysis. I remember the doctors telling me they were going to try to keep me alive over night.

After a few days, I was diagnosed with multiple myeloma. I underwent an autologous stem cell transplant and high-dose chemo. After a couple of months on dialysis, the doctors gave me no hope that my kidneys would begin functioning again. I was on hemodialysis and then peritoneal dialysis at home.

I am so happy to report after two years of dialysis that I was able to stop all of it. My creatinine levels are usually 1.8. My kidney doctors tell me I'm a miracle every time I see them. I am very grateful to the treatments and lots and lots of prayers!

This is a very condensed version of my experiences, leaving out 10 compression fractures in my back, kidney stones, urinary track infections, C. diff, a broken pelvis from a fall, and shingles. Beginning in July 2009 I have appreciated almost 5 years of the myeloma being in remission.

In February of this year, I found out the myeloma was active again so I am in treatment again. We caught it very early and my creatinine levels are still good and my kidneys are functioning at about 40%.

With the treatments and more prayers, I fully expect for the myeloma to back in remission soon!

[Beacon Staff]

Re: Diagnosed in 2008 after complete kidney failure

by Beacon Staff on Fri Sep 12, 2014 2:02 am

Welcome to the forum, Keri ... and congratulations on responding so well to the treatment you've received so far. We hope you find a lot of helpful support and information here and elsewhere at The Beacon.

Just as a quick FYI to everyone, Keri originally posted her introduction above in the forum discussion titled "Has anyone's kidneys improved drastically with treatment?" (started June 30, 2014).

We thought, however, that it might be worthwhile to have the posting be the start of a separate thread of its own in this section of the forum.

[antelope1225]

Re: Diagnosed in 2008 after complete kidney failure

by antelope1225 on Thu Sep 18, 2014 4:25 pm

Hi Koalad,

I can only imagine what a tough road yours has been. I have been through much of what you have, but not all -- you have definitely had a harder road than I have.

When I was first diagnosed, my nephrologist said I was "end stage renal", and I had to watch a 1-hour video explaining the different types of dialysis so I could choose whether I wanted the hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis. I cried for the entire hour of the video. Not sure why, but the idea of dialysis seemed like more than I could take.

I also had a stem cell transplant, battled C. diff for 6 months, had shingles, urinary tract infections and kidney infections. So I know exactly what you have been through on those.

But you also lived through years of dialysis and 10 spinal compression fractures, kidney stones, and a broken pelvis from a fall.

And I share your faith. How do people go through all of this without it? I loved your scripture, too.

I will pray for you.

Cathy