Dialysis Didn’t Fit Career Plan
Share this:
“There was a time where I didn’t do dialysis for a month, and I refused hemodialysis,” says Michelle Obespo-‐Theus, whose high blood pressure led to kidney failure. She notes her biggest battle with kidney failure was ensuring that dialysis didn’t ruin her high-profile career as a consultant for major athletes. "Another hospital said, ‘You have to do ‘hemo,’ and they were trying to put this thing in my arm. I said, ‘Absolutely not.’ I need to wear dresses and do all these things, and this will not be the end of my life. "
"At UCLA, nephrologist Dr. Anjay Rastogi and Joe Ephantus, the head nurse, gave me all the options and told me about peritoneal dialysis [where you can give yourself treatments at home, at work or while traveling] It wasn’t the easiest process, and I definitely had complications, but it was a better fit for my lifestyle. I’m 100 percent better now that I have a kidney, thanks to an altruistic donor. My personal experience with UCLA is that I couldn’t ask for anything better, especially in such a traumatic time.”
Related Posts
Prior to her transplant, musician Chloe Temtchine would perform connected to an oxygen tank
6 health care professionals offer tips for getting the most out of telemedicine.
A young woman’s operating room drama highlights state-of-the art epilepsy treatment at UCLA Health.
Recent Posts
Prior to her transplant, musician Chloe Temtchine would perform connected to an oxygen tank
Ask the Doctors finish their monthly letter columns by answering questions
Recognition keeps the hospital among an elite group of facilities across the nation