What I have learned

Here is a list of things I have learned over the last 120 days or so. This is in NO specific order, just how I am spitting them out.

I learned that a "fistula" is ugly and makes your arm fat due to expanding your veins. I learned that I can be a better patient if it means NOT having to get one of those. I learned that surgery is painful. I learned people are patient, I am just not included in that statement. Recently I have learned the importance of being organized. Doing Dialysis from home is hard work. Making sure everything has a place helps getting set-up. Documentation is crucial. If you don't document, you forget and making things up won't work either. I learned that if you "tug" on your port from your belly, holy hell that hurts. I also was reminded that getting a port out of your boobie isn't fun either. I again remembered that I really hate idle chit chat. I don't care why you are at dialysis, I can only assume it is because your Kidney's do not function properly. I learned that I can scream at Dr. Plumb, tell him totally inappropriate things, and he still likes me and wants me to feel as best as I can. I did really learn that for a Kidney patient, it is best to order a hamburger and onion rings when eating out. I am not used to that, I miss my grilled chicken, no mayo. I don't like to mow my mom's lawn, but someone will get to it tomorrow. So rather then waiting for "tomorrow", Patti and I do it on Monday's. I don't have as much energy that I did in March or April. May has brought a light to my eye that reminds me I am sick and will need to rest more then I want to. I figured out that Phosphorous and Potassium shouldn't be consumed by a Kidney patient. I also don't know what that means exactly, but they tell me to avoid such things. I learned that I have saved a lot of crap. I am packing for the big move, and I probably have hundreds, I mean HUNDREDS of pictures from weddings past. I did find one of a couple that isn't even married anymore. Really?!?!? I have also learned it is ok to let things go. I can still hold a grudge, but physically, I don't 'need' so many things. I just want more then you. Fact. I have learned that I love summertime. I love the College World Series. I love going to work at Blue. I love that I can bitch and bitch and people still love me. Well, they at least still talk to me. I have learned that I am lucky to have a lot of people in my life. Dougherty is my "go to gal" and she will listen and listen and listen and never interrupt. Thanks Champ! Today was a good day. I wanted to let people know all the things I have learned and all the things I will continue learning.

I guess I am just ready for the big dinner/party. This event will take off so much stress from me, my family, and the entire wing they will name after me at UNMC. (kidding, I just feel like I should have a wing) Please remember, if you are not golfing, you can still come to the dinner (4323 Washington Street). If you can't do that, and want to make a donation, (Megan Sharpe Benefit, 7210 Sun Valley Dr, Omaha, NE 58157)

9 days til the Klassic!!