Motivational

Art K.—25 years on dialysis and going strong!

By Lynn D., RN
Macomb Kidney Center of DaVita #326

DaVita’s Macomb Kidney Center in Warren, Michigan has proof that life on dialysis can be rewarding and productive. That proof is Art K. who will soon commemorate 25 years on dialysis.

Art began dialysis at the age of 12 after a routine school physical detected protein in his urine. He tells us that dialysis was much different for him back then. Twenty-five years ago his treatment was done with a single needle rather than two needles and extended to six hours if his fluid gain was more than three pounds (1.5 kg), whereas today he would just stay on his regularly scheduled time.

As difficult as today’s fluid restrictions may seem, Art says it was worse years ago as he was allowed only about one and a half cups of fluid per day. Today, his fluid limits are about three times that amount at four to five cups per day.

Art says he used to cheat on his fluids by putting his head under the bathroom faucet at night and drinking water when his parents thought he was brushing his teeth. He learned early on that he would pay a price when he cheated on his fluids.

In the 25 years since Art has dialyzed he’s managed to lead an interesting and eventful life. He’s earned his associate’s degree in Marketing and bachelor’s degree in Social Science from Michigan State University and went on for a master’s degree in Human Resource Development from Clemson University in South Carolina.

When not busy pursuing his education, Art enjoys sporting events. He attended the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta, indulged his NASCAR passion by racing a stock car at 160 mph and has taken road trips to Chicago, Toronto and Atlanta to follow his favorite NHL team, the Detroit Red Wings. Art has even met fellow racing enthusiast and late night talk show host David Letterman—and has the t-shirt to prove it!

It’s clear that Art hasn’t let dialysis interfere with his life. When asked for words of advice to share with other dialysis patients, Art responded, “Keep doing the things you used to do, watch your fluids and keep your spirits up because dialysis has come a long way.”