Dialysis : An Unanticipated Journey

by David L. Axtmann

No Synopsis Available.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0970705816
• ISBN13: 9780970705815
• Release Date: January 2001
• Publisher: Tucky Paws Pub
• Length: 141 Pages
• Weight: 0.50 lbs.
• Dimensions: 8.3" x 0.5" x 5.5"

Customer Reviews

A remarkable, heartfelt narrative about dialysis & humanity

My fiancee bought me this book along with a few others on kidney disease after my grandfather was told that he would soon begin dialysis treatments. I am really grateful that I had the opportunity to read it. It is informative, enjoyable, and most of all, insightful. I have purchased 3 more copies --- 1 for my mother; 1 for my grandpa's two living sisters to share; and 1 for his nephrologist to keep in his office. Be aware that this is not a medical text or up-to-date "scientific self-help" book. It is Mr. Axtmann's partial biography, and his narrative is the story of his 30+ years on dialysis ... the highlights, low points, and anecdotes of a man looking back on many years of suffering --- but more importantly, many years of survival! Once you finish it, I think you'll feel like I do: that you have read a story not about a faceless kidney patient, but of the VERY REAL couple, Dave and Marlene, and the trials they faced and overcame! That is the strength of this book. I have learned so much from this short volume (appr. 130 pp.) that it's hard to describe it all. When I started trying to grasp my grandfather's problem, in order to help him as much as possible, I was lost. Now I feel much better (helped by **several** books, but especially this one) about the whole ordeal, and our chances of recovering as a family to a lifestyle which is mostly normal once dialysis begins. If this book has any weakness, it is that much of it takes place in the 1970s and 80s. Although Mr. Axtmann makes great effort to mention new developments and the procedures used today, one cannot help but feel that this is out-of-date if all you are looking for is the cold, hard facts of today's dialysis. However, if you can open your mind and heart in order to learn from the past, in order to plan for the future, I recommend this volume without hesitation.

*Educational, personal and entertaining... well-written....*

I am not a dialysis patient but a good friend of mine is and I really got a lot out of this book. David keeps his story on a light and informative note. His endurance and strength are an inspiration to many people who have to deal with illnesses or even with everyday life challenges. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and will recommend it to anyone who needs a boost and a few hours of quiet time and reflection. Thank you for sharing your story, David.

Words of Inspiration

This book will be an inspiration to all who read it. I picked it up and didn't put it down until I was finished. Be sure you have a box of kleenix by your side. The ups and downs of the auther and the love and concern shown by his family and friends will keep you reading and inspired to the end.

Motivational

I found this book to be motivational! David showed my family how to be optimistic when everything seems to be slipping away. The book was well written and easy to read. I have referred it to people I work with as well.

Dialysis - An Unanticipated Journey

When I first became employed in a dialysis clinic, I knew nothing about dialysis. This was the first book I read. I could not put it down! I read it in one night. This book brings the trials and the joys of Mr. Axtmann's journey to life and is as relevant today as when he started his life-saving adventure. The best thing about the book is that it is written for the layman...it's easy reading and truly gives you an understanding of how patients readjust their lifestyle when they find it necessary to go on dialysis.I think every patient and their family, as well as healtcare workers should read this book. I've given several copies as gifts and the response of the recipients has been the same as mine.