In 2010, to celebrate my tenth year of a wonderful life on dialysis I sort of got in shape and canoed 225 miles with the Grand River Expedition 2010. It was an incredible journey that couldn't have happened without my family and many dear friends.

I have been on dialysis since 2001 and have used every form of dialysis currently available in search of the best outcome and the best life. I have done in-center hemodialysis, at home hemodialysis with a traditional dialysis machine, peritoneal dialysis and finally, NxStage's System One home hemodialysis machine. I have had two kidney transplants, one from my beautiful wife and another because a thoughtful motorcyclist had checked the donate organs line on his license. For me, the technology for a successful transplant does not exist for my disease. I remain open and optimistic about wearable and implantable artificial kidneys.

Since I started my first blog, Tasty Kidney Pie, in 2001, I have tried to, and hope to continue to, inspire dialysis patients and others living with chronic illnesses to get outdoors and live an active and fruitful life.

Since 2001, The Riverdudes, my National Kidney Foundation of Michigan Walk Team has raised $78,000.

I currently spend my time writing, raising my children, snuggling with my wife, getting outside and staying active, and hopefully inspiring others along the way.

Thank you

With your help we can exceed this year's goal of $5,000 for the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan. Thank you very much for your continued support. Erich



Friday, August 6, 2010

Heading for the Chippewa River for a river fix with Jacob and Antonia

Because of the incredible support of Andria, I was able to spend thirteen days of the summer on the Grand River.  Since coming home, I've been spending all my time with my family, camping, making dinners, swimming at the MSU pool and just plain hanging out.  We have four weeks left until Jacob and Antonia are back in school and I want to make the most of our time together.  Because of this, the blogging has been a bit spotty.  Once school starts, I will have more time to reflect on my incredible 225 mile journey.  I feel blessed that I was able to complete it with energy to share.

If I can tear myself away from my computer and finish the breakfast dishes, I will take Jake and Antonia up to the Chippewa River in Mount Pleasant.  It is one of the closer cool, clear running streams.  Time to go.
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