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Living It Up
Three years ago Joe Marczak nervously faced the prospect of undergoing dialysis. The Toms River, N.J., resident was apprehensive that the diagnosis would mean that he would be homebound, unable to enjoy all his favorite activities. He quickly discovered that wasn’t the case.
Not too long after he started dialysis, Joe got back to his busy schedule. He even traveled with his wife Irene to visit family in Virginia. Two months before the trip, Joe made arrangements to have dialysis treatments at a center close to his daughter’s house.
The process proved to be so easy that Joe regularly advises dialysis patients not to hesitate to travel. "I gave my social worker all the travel information. She contacted the clinic and sent them my medical records, and then I was all set," Joe says. "The clinic staff was very nice and accommodating."
Joe keeps active as president of the local American Polish Club. He and his wife plan outings and monthly dinner-dances for members. Joe also eagerly serves as a mentor for other dialysis newcomers. "If they know they’re going on dialysis, I tell them to read up as much as they can. Finding out the answers to all your questions really puts your mind to rest."
A cheerful and outgoing patient, Joe is quick with a joke. He believes his good attitude is the key to healing. "If I had to give a speech to newcomers, I would say that attitude is important. You have to keep yourself occupied while you’re there: read a book, do crossword puzzles, watch TV." And be kind to your caregivers, he says. "Go in with an attitude that they’re keeping you alive. Appreciate the job they’re doing."
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