MENTOR HIGHLIGHT: GRACIE CASTRO
The story of Gracie Castro: Learning About Kidney Disease.
In 1997, I faced the first of a succession of choices. While at work, my doctor called to inform me that my labs showed I had kidney failure. He told me to go to the hospital immediately and that he had reserved a room for me there. I was In the hospital for two weeks and was informed I would be on dialysis. Not knowing what was ahead of me, I just followed my doctors directions. He sent me to a dialysis clinic and after almost 25 years on dialysis, I’m at the same clinic in Chula Vista, Ca.
Kidney disease has its challenges and I soon learned that kidney patients need much more than dialysis, and I knew that my attitude, actions and spiritual faith would have a direct effect on how I managed my illness for the long haul. When I first became sick, my nephrologist advised me that my church could provide valuable support. I was not going to isolate myself in a corner and wait for death to arrive. This would be a journey like no other and I would have to make the best of it by facing challenges with advice and support.
My main concern was to stay healthy. It isn’t just one thing, one vitamin, one medication, or one doctors visit. It’s a number of things all together that lead to a healthier life. I didn’t let the lack of knowledge rob me of being healthier. I chose to learn more about kidney disease and become proactive in my care and life on dialysis. I soon realized it was up to me to chart the best approach to my specific care needs.
On an ongoing basis, I ask questions of my dialysis care team, including my doctor, nurses, patient care technician, dietitian and social worker. It’s so important to ask questions and educate yourself of your health. I follow my renal diet, take my medications as my doctor recommends, exercise and try to stay active.
I try to keep myself active traveling with my husband, Tony ( he is a big part of my healthcare) and enjoy our 19 grandchildren and great granddaughter, my dad and extended family. I enjoy being active in my church and drawing and painting.
My faith in God also makes a big difference in my personal life. A positive attitude makes a difference when having a demanding disease and is a way of staying encouraged and living one day at a time with hope for tomorrow.
I have my good days and my bad days but I never give up.