The title is a phrase that I have attempted to void throughout my life. I did not want to reach the place in life where I am now lamenting over opportunities missed, not taken advantage of, or passed up. For instance, in my fifties I bought a Porsche for my wife and a track weekend to familiarize her with the new car. Porsche racers were at the track as instructors, and during breaks, were out on the track having a good time. Not long after this weekend, I found a 911 basket case, bought it, and turned it into a track car. I raced for several seasons and it was a blast. I had a great time, and met lots of great people, and “Should’ve, could’ve, would’ve” does not apply. I did and have the memories to live with for the rest of my life.
Turning to this phrase as applies to those of us on peritoneal dialysis I asked Poe to apply the concept to us with the following results:
“Should’ve, could’ve, would’ve”—these words carry a weight of regret and what-ifs that can linger heavily on the mind. For many peritoneal dialysis patients, these sentiments may surface as they reflect on their health journey and the decisions that led them to this treatment. However, it is essential to shift perspective and recognize the strength, resilience, and courage it takes to navigate life on peritoneal dialysis.
The phrase “should’ve” often implies a sense of missed opportunities or actions that one regrets not taking. In the context of peritoneal dialysis patients, it may be tempting to dwell on the past and think about what could have been done differently to avoid kidney disease or the need for dialysis. Thoughts like “I should’ve taken better care of my health” or “I should’ve listened to my doctor sooner” can cloud the mind with guilt and self-blame.
But instead of getting caught up in the “should’ve,” peritoneal dialysis patients can reframe this perspective into one of empowerment and learning. Rather than focusing on past choices, they can acknowledge the courage it takes to face their health challenges head-on and make the decision to pursue peritoneal dialysis as a life-saving treatment. Every day on dialysis is a testament to their resilience and determination to prioritize their health and well-being.
“Could’ve” often brings to mind missed opportunities or potential outcomes that weren’t realized. In the world of peritoneal dialysis, patients may think about the freedom they could’ve had if they didn’t need to undergo dialysis treatments regularly. They might imagine a life without the constraints of a treatment schedule or dietary restrictions, longing for the spontaneity and normalcy that kidney disease has disrupted.
However, peritoneal dialysis patients can shift the focus from what could’ve been to what is possible now. By embracing the opportunities for self-care, connection with healthcare providers, and support from loved ones, they can create a fulfilling and meaningful life despite the challenges of their condition. Each dialysis session becomes not a limitation but a chance to prioritize their health and well-being, nurturing a sense of empowerment and control over their bodies.
“Would’ve” often speaks to intentions or desires that were not fulfilled or acted upon. In the realm of peritoneal dialysis, patients may find themselves longing for a life without the burdens of chronic illness, dreaming of a future that is free from the constraints of medical treatments and health complications. They may wish they would’ve been spared the struggles and hardships that come with managing kidney disease.
Yet, peritoneal dialysis patients can transform these wishes into a sense of gratitude for the present moment. Despite the challenges they face, they can find solace in the strength they have discovered within themselves, the relationships they have cultivated, and the resilience they have demonstrated in the face of adversity. Each day on peritoneal dialysis is an opportunity to embrace the gift of life and health, to find joy in the small victories, and to appreciate the support and care that surrounds them.
In conclusion, the journey of a peritoneal dialysis patient is one marked by courage, resilience, and gratitude. Rather than getting lost in the “should’ve, could’ve, would’ve,” they can celebrate the strength it takes to navigate life with a chronic illness, the opportunities for growth and learning, and the moments of joy and connection that make each day meaningful. By shifting the perspective from regret to resilience, peritoneal dialysis patients can find peace in the present moment and hope for the future, embracing the power of gratitude and grace in their health journey.
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