Thriving while on dialysis – with a fulfilling job
In addition, a varied daily routine, financial independence and contacts with colleagues and business partners represent a welcome distraction. Doctors also confirm the positive effects of work on the body and psyche of dialysis patients.
It is possible to lead an active and fulfilling professional life, provided that the health of the patient and the working conditions fit together. Three patients with chronic kidney disease from three different countries volunteered to tell us about their experiences with haemodialysis while working full time.
Ciulică Nicolae
from Romania, 61 years old, is an electrical engineer in telecommunications and is currently working as a supervisor. Today, his grandchildren come first, but in earlier days, his hobbies were motor vehicles and trekking. Ciulică was diagnosed with chronic kidney disease in 1985.
Stjepan Pešt
from Croatia, 50, was diagnosed with glomerulonephritis at the early age of two. Despite constant medical check-ups, he experienced complete kidney failure in 1986. Nonetheless, he finished high school and now works as an accountant. Stjepan enjoys gardening and tending to his family’s poultry and pigs, being in the fresh air.
Reconciling a job with regular haemodialysis treatment
Ciulică: The first dialysis period back in the eighties was quite challenging. I was on haemodialysis for ten years before I received a kidney transplant which served me for 18 years. Despite little ups and downs due to age-related comorbidities I feel very well in my current dialysis programme. During these periods, I never stopped working, and my position is not physically demanding, which encouraged me to stay in my job.
Stjepan: When I had to start dialysis in 1986, I felt as if my whole world was falling apart. I was only 18, after all. Luckily, I always handled dialysis well and got a lot of help from the people around me. I worked full time with a perfectly functioning kidney transplant for 15 years, but had to go back on haemodialysis in 2012. I love working and being useful to those around me. However, I am currently on sick leave until I receive a new kidney, since I can’t get dialysed at night, and my work requires daytime hours. In Croatia, you either have to work or be on sick leave, as healthcare does not provide specific options for combining work with time on dialysis.
Overcoming the challenges of combining haemodialysis with work
Ciulică: The greatest challenge is travelling around the country, something that my position requires. But I like my job and travelling motivates me even more. Also, when I was first diagnosed, I talked about it as straightforwardly as possible to establish communication. My employer was very supportive, I even got financial help when I had my transplant.
Stjepan: All of my acquaintances, clients and colleagues know about my health problems. Many of them were interested to learn more about kidney disease. So, when we meet, there is no need for explanations as to why I cannot or should not do something.
Speaking from experience: Suggestions on how to continue working during dialysis
Ciulică: I advise everybody who can continue working to do so. People will feel more energetic, they will have significant accomplishments, and time will pass faster. During my first dialysis period, although I was not feeling well, I did not quit my job.
Stjepan: I think the most important thing is coming to terms with everything. I never think of myself as a gravely ill person, tied to his house and bed. On the contrary, I think the best medicine is to be cheerful, open and in touch with people. Enjoy every new day and look forward to the little things.
Thank you,
Ciulică and Stjepan for sharing your personal experiences. They will be an inspiration for many!