tuttigym's Blog

Mortality

A couple of week ago there was a short conversation on one of the threads about how one might face certain health events and their approach to their personal mortality. It was interesting.

About six years ago, after some labs, I was diagnosed with kidney failure at the Stage 4 level. My testing continued and, to my surprise, I experienced no side effects, and my chemistry levels remained consistent but not alarming, so my lifestyle did not change. It was everything as usual. However, my personal approach to this situation was that I was NOT going to take dialysis if it became apparent that those treatments would extend my life.

Four years ago, one of my sons was diagnosed with Stage 4 bone cancer which he apparently acquired in Irag during the first Gulf War manning some of the dumpster fires.

Fast forward to December 2024, and I had a "minor" heart event which required the placement of a stent. The doctors "required" me to start the process for dialysis otherwise they would not perform their surgery, and I accepted their "deal."

January 2025, I had two catheters inserted in my chest, and a lengthy process was initiated. Two or so months later, I had surgery to place a fistula in my left arm because the catheters were only a "temporary" fix and were eventually removed. So, between January 2025 and July 2025 there were six outpatient surgeries. Except for the inconveniences and disappointments, there was no pain or discomfort physically. During all this time, I was in dialysis treatment three times a week for 4 hours a day, and right now, except for the boredom of lounging on a recliner, I am doing ok.

During that six-month period, my son would call me every day, and we would talk about how our day went as we were concerned about each other. His condition deteriorated as mine started to stabilize.

He died earlier this month. He was only 54.

My personal attitude about my mortality has evolved because right now, I can drive, shop, do some volunteer work at the food bank I served for 23 years, and get to a casino once a week without ANY discomfort or pain.

p.s. I want to thank Deiter for his help, encouragement, and knowledge that got me through the early portion of this time period.

tuttigym