If nothing else, being on Dialysis really has a high suck factor. A dictionary definition of “suck” is “unpleasant or not enjoyable.” Dialysis certainly meets this criterion.
There are tons of things we have to do in life that actually suck. This is especially true for those of us with a military background. War and constantly training for war sucks. When I joined the US Navy in 1958, I was shipped off to boot camp in San Diego. People go to San Diego to visit the zoo; I was in the zoo in Boot Camp, along with 59 other monkeys in my company. We were kept in a restricted area for weeks, had to wash our clothes every night, often in the rain with one bucket of water, were up at 0500 and constantly on the go, and had no trouble sleeping when we were allowed to fall into our racks at 2100 lights out.
It sucked but for a reason. There were no weekends off, no evening cocktails or beers with friends, or gourmet food, just a constant grind. We were told that sympathy is between shit and syphilis in the dictionary; there was no sympathy. It sucked!
We came out at graduation better in many ways than when we arrived. We learned to take care of ourselves and others in our company as well. Some, at first, couldn’t swim or jump off high places into the water; some were fat at the start, and some were skinny. All were young boys; upon graduation, many were young men who made their country proud of them, which is another story.
So much can suck in military training that the US Navy SEALs have coded “Suckness” into one of their many credos. Those of us on Dialysis and other walks of life can profit from this SEAL credo.
In the world of the US Navy SEALs, one phrase echoes loudly during the grueling rigors of training: “Embrace the Suck.” It’s a motto that encapsulates the mindset needed to endure the toughest of conditions, the harshest of realities, and the most challenging of circumstances. This saying, while simple, carries a profound meaning, one that can be applied to various life situations. Today, we’ll explore how this phrase can offer a guiding light to those who are navigating the journey of peritoneal dialysis.
Peritoneal dialysis, a treatment for kidney failure, is an experience that often demands a heavy physical, emotional, and psychological toll. It’s a routine of daily treatments that can be arduous, often leading to feelings of frustration, exhaustion, and even despair. But just as the SEALs push through their trials, so too can those of us on peritoneal dialysis find strength and resilience in the face of adversity.
Embrace the Reality
The first step in “embracing the suck” is acknowledging the reality of the situation. For those on peritoneal dialysis, this means accepting that this is now a part of your daily routine. It’s not a punishment, not a sentence, but a means to an end – a way to manage kidney disease and maintain your health. Embracing reality allows you to move past denial and focus on the steps you need to take to care for yourself.
Find Strength in Adversity
The second aspect of “embracing the suck” is finding strength in adversity. The SEALs endure grueling physical and mental training, finding strength in their ability to overcome extreme conditions. Similarly, peritoneal dialysis patients can find their own strength in their journey. Each treatment completed, each day lived with positivity, is a testament to your resilience. It’s about embracing the challenge and recognizing that you are stronger than you think.
Build a Support Network
Just as SEALs rely on their team for support, so too should those on peritoneal dialysis build a strong network of loved ones, medical professionals, and fellow patients. Having people who understand your struggles and who can offer support and encouragement can make the journey less daunting. Embrace the suck, but don’t do it alone.
Focus on the Goal
Lastly, “embracing the suck” means keeping your eyes on the goal. For the SEALs, it’s the completion of their mission. For those on peritoneal dialysis, it’s about living your best life possible, despite the challenges. Whether your goal is maintaining your health, spending quality time with your loved ones, or working towards a kidney transplant, keep it in sight. It’s the beacon that guides you through the toughest days.
“Embrace the Suck” is more than a motto; it’s a philosophy that can offer a fresh perspective and instill a sense of resilience. Just as it’s helped the toughest of the tough in the Navy SEALs, it can also provide guidance and strength to those navigating the journey of peritoneal dialysis. It’s about accepting the challenge, finding strength in adversity, and keeping your eyes on the prize. Remember, you’re tougher than you think, and you’re never alone in your journey.
Dialysis sucks! Embrace the Suck!
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