When most people decide to take a long distance trip all they have to do is either hop in the automobile or purchase an airline ticket; but it’s not that simple for everyone.

When our nephew Jake, who lives in Oregon, decided to visit us for a week this summer in Arkansas, there were hurdles he had to overcome.   He could not just hop in his automobile and go, he could not just call a travel agent or even purchase a ticket online without first doing some other things.

Preparation is Essential

Individuals with chronic kidney disease cannot afford to miss their treatments.  So my nephew Jake visiting our family this past summer, had to be well prepared. 

Jake was jubilant that he found a medical facility in our area to receive dialysis on his regular days, Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.  Although the days were available, specific time slots were not.  He could be assigned morning, afternoon, or evening.   Fortunately, the time factor is minor in comparison to other requirements. 

Although Jake was blessed with family and medical support and was happy to receive dialysis away from home, there were some frustrations.   He spent a great deal of time preparing for the trip.  It is suggested that appointments at Dialysis Centers be made at least four weeks in advance or longer if possible. 

Although Jake had planned well in advance, he still had to be flexible.  He also had to develop a Plan B, just in case Plan A fell through. 

Any itinerary with family or friends had to fit around the dialysis schedule.  It was necessary for Jake to inform his host of his dietary needs.  He had to make sure that the places where he stayed had the kind of foods he could eat, for example he could only eat diabetic, vegetarian, low salt, low fat type foods.  In addition, it was necessary for him to prepare his own snacks while traveling, just in case there was a flight delay or other unexpected situations.

The moral of this story is, those suffering from kidney disease CAN enjoy travel and visits with family and friends far away. But it's not easy, and some thorough preparation is essential!

©MedicalMile.com
www.medicalmile.com

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