Update: 11 August 2009

I'm back!

I have been indisposed since Lee created this blog and only now do I get to have some words! Last week Tuesday I had a catheter inserted in my lower belly, which will facilitate dialysis and remain for the said duration. I assure you, it is not a fashionable item and I have no hopes of pre-empting any new trends. Lee updated you on the specifics of my accommodation and I can add that I'm very happy to be home.

The procedure, though under general anaesthetic, was nothing major thankfully, and I got to enjoy a bit of morphine from time to time. The dressing is the hassle at this stage as it needs to be changed daily, for the next four weeks, and both Lee and I have to go through many motions of hand-washing and sterilising as we proceed. As encouragement though are my memories of ward-mates who were in for catheter infections...oh boy...I don't wanna go there!

I was released last Thursday and have taken it easy at home since then. The mild pain from the procedure, coupled with the initial awkwardly tight dressing, had me walking slightly stooped and favouring my abdominal muscles. The result is that now these muscles are more sore than the original pain! There are also a few stitches at another small cut, where they inserted the camera...yup, keyhole stuff...and they will come out later this week.

Even as I write this, I am waiting for a call from the renal unit to advise me of the next step. That will be the CAPD dialysis training, and will in all likelihood take place this week, from today. There are many aspects to it and since the patient is relied upon to self-administer life support, they like us to be well advised and self-sufficient. I won't actually be using my own catheter for training as it still needs to settle, but will probably start my dialysis next Monday.

Will let you know how it goes!