Begin Home Hemodialysis

Today, July 7, 2025, after several months of doing dialysis in clinic, and a little over a month of training, I began doing my dialysis at home. I initially trained to do the dialysis at home back in March but, a move and all the run-around that I have been through following that delayed me actually starting to do my dialysis at home.

My home hemodialysis machine

Home hemodialysis involves a smaller machine, less time hooked to the machine but, more frequent sessions. I will do the dialysis five days a week as opposed to three which is easier on my body and my kidneys. I still have some kidney function and would like to keep it that way for as long as possible.

The home hemodialysis allows me some more flexibility with when I am hooked up to the machine. The major downside of home hemodialysis is that I have to stick myself with a couple of needles. On the other hand I have to draw blood at least once a month so I feel like a phlebotomist.