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



Tuesday, May 7, 2013

Tonight I'm leading Troop 180 Boy Scouts on a short (one and half hours give or take) canoe trip in preparation for a longer trip on the Rifle River in northern Michigan later this month. We'll hop in the Red Cedar, the river famously referred to in MSU's fight song, and paddle to the confluence with the Grand River. Will follow that into downtown Lansing, Michigan's Capital of Michigan and hop out just before the northern dam in Old Town. We have been blessed with a number of rainless days and the rivers have coming down from the April highs. The weather forecast is excellent.

 I wanted to take my son's kayak and follow the route this past weekend just to make sure it is not to obstructed. Unfortunately, my anemia was such that it probably wasn't a good idea to take two paddles (trips) so close together. Instead, I've saved up my strength for a wonderful paddle tonight.

 So, here is the take away - not being strong enough to do things like you used to, is not a reason to give them up all together. You need to make adjustments, lower expectations, ensure that you are still confident and will be safe, and hop into your boat and paddle away. Just because you are on dialysis you shouldn't give up the things you love.

 Paddle on.
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