Throughout my stay in Japan, I have encountered many pleasant and hospitable persons. The one person who still contacts me is Chie Ito-san whom I met and became friends with during my dialysis sessions at Nishiguchi Dialysis Clinic . A very friendly and kind person.
Well, during my stay in Toho University Hospital, I met a patient in my ward after my transplantation. She was a very kind and friendly lady. Her name is Chie Yoshika-san. She was admitted because she wanted to donate her kidney for her son, Hiroki-san. Hiroki-san is only 12 years old and had kidney failure since birth. She is one of the most determined and strong person I have met. I admire and respect her for her strength and optimism. She is a very positive minded and extrovert person. I met her again at the hospital, three months later. I was glad to hear that Hiroki-san is doing fine and even went back to school.
Both the ladies have many similarity. They both converse greatly in English. They share the same name. They are both beautiful and remarkable persons. They both work in a medical-related field. Chie Ito-san is a nurse whereas Chie Yoshika-san is a anesthesiologist. They still keep in touch with me and they are both very important to me and I respect them both in many ways.
Thank you ladies for simply being superb and wonderful. I'm glad to have known you :)
Thursday, November 25, 2010
The Transplant Story
As mentioned in the earlier blogs, my transplant was scheduled to be held in July 2010. After many tests, several alterations and the availability of the operation theater, my surgery was finally scheduled on the 7th of July 2010.
I was admitted in the Toho University Hospital on the 28th of June 2010 to prepare myself for the operation. The stay was enjoyable and memorable to me because of the hospital staff. Speaking medical term in Japanese was really tough for me, but I do agree that I learned many terms and words in Japanese because of the wonderful nurses. The nurse in charge of me was Yamashita-san. A kind and very hospitable lady. She was really kind to me and looked after me really well. She was always willing to go the extra mile to help me. For instance, once she prepared the English version of post-transplant book for me. That was the nicest thing :)
I got along well with other nurses too. Yamaguchi-san is another friendly nurse. I first met her during my dialysis session at Toho University Hospital. Although she speaks English very well; sometimes she converse to me in Japanese language in order to teach me. Some words can be tricky or hard to understand but I managed to learn them by seeing their hand gestures. They tend to speak with me with lots of hand gestures and that definitely helped me a lot! I didn't feel like a patient but was treated more like a friend.
I think that's the specialty and the nobility of the Japanese people. All the people that I met are very friendly, kind and very helpful. The are very concerned people and are really very dedicated to their work! I have never seen anyone as disciplined and humble like them. I consider myself very lucky to be treated here in Japan amidst the kindest people on earth.
The doctors are excellent too. Dr Ken Sakai consulted me in his clinic prior to my admission. Once admitted, I was under Dr Hyodo's supervision. A concerned, friendly and funny doctor. He originated from the Kansai region and therefore thought me a lot of Kansai slang. The head surgeon is Professor Dr Aikawa who usually visits his patients every Tuesday mornings. A powerful surgeon but yet very humble. A patient once told us that Dr Aikawa is referred to as the 'hands of God'.
The patients were like a family. We can relate to them so well although most of us can't converse to each other at all! This was because the patients are all kidney failure patients, either on dialysis or already had their transplant surgery. We could relate by understanding their pain and sufferings and vice-versa.
At the end of June, the doctors were still debating whether to give me a plasma exchange prior to the transplantation but finally agreed to perform it one time on a day before my operation. As of early of July, my family came over to Japan. My donor was admitted on 1st of July 2010 and underwent several tests as well. My donor and I had a good HLA matching and a small trouble at T-cell matching but it was OK. We had a matching test again 48 hours before the surgery and the results were not promising. My 'blood' was rejecting my donor's. We were slightly worried but the doctor convinced us not to worry as I will undergo a plasma exchange session. My last dialysis was scheduled on 6th of July 2010 and a plasma exchange was performed thereafter. Another matching test was conducted after the procedure and the results were good; which means that the operation is on :)
Finally, Wednesday came. It was the 7th of July 2010. I was all excited but there was a problem.My donor was having a fever and the doctors needed to discuss whether to proceed with the operation. It was necessary because, if operation was performed on a sick patient, he or she is highly prone to infections. My donor somehow got better and after several discussions with the doctors, the operation was not canceled. I wasn't so excited because I was worried about my donor. I really wanted the donor to be healthy, happy and prepared for the operation.
After everything seemed well, we had our operation :)
During the operation my family were asked to wait in the ward. My husband told me that it was Dr Ken Sakai that ran to the ward and informed them that the kidney is working :)
After the operation was over, we were transferred back to our respective wards. I somehow remembered being ushered to the ward and seeing my family. I asked about the donor and glad to hear that everything is OK. I even remembered Dr Ken Sakai holding my hand, telling us everything is OK. A doctor whom shall not be forgotten by me, ever.
The recovering period was quite painful and uncomfortable but I wasn't complaining. Somehow I felt lifted and everything seemed like a dream. I was able to walk on the third day after the operation and visited my donor first. I was sadden and felt guilty to hear and see that my donor had a little trouble handling the pain. It was so honorable of the donor to be doing all this for me. I hope that the donor gets better and leads a perfect, normal and happy life forever.
My donor was discharged a week later and I was discharged a month later. I stayed at home most of the time except for going to the hospital for weekly check ups. The creatinine was quite stable and I was scheduled for a kidney biopsy three months later.
My mother took care of me for three months and left for Malaysia at the end of September. I was pampered and well taken care of during her stay.
I was admitted in the hospital, three months later and a kidney biopsy was performed. This was the hospital's procedure to ensure no rejections occur to the graft. The results returned five days later and we were happy to learn that the kidney is functioning well and there were no signs of rejection. Before being discharged, Yamashita-san came running to my ward to wish me well. I was overwhelmed to see her so caring about her patient. She said that she was anxious about the results and now relieved that everything is fine. I was speechless. I couldn't ask for better doctors or nurses.
These were my experience throughout my stay at the hospital. I am truly very grateful for all the care and the love shown. Therefore, this will be my most memorable and important moment in my life.
I was admitted in the Toho University Hospital on the 28th of June 2010 to prepare myself for the operation. The stay was enjoyable and memorable to me because of the hospital staff. Speaking medical term in Japanese was really tough for me, but I do agree that I learned many terms and words in Japanese because of the wonderful nurses. The nurse in charge of me was Yamashita-san. A kind and very hospitable lady. She was really kind to me and looked after me really well. She was always willing to go the extra mile to help me. For instance, once she prepared the English version of post-transplant book for me. That was the nicest thing :)
I got along well with other nurses too. Yamaguchi-san is another friendly nurse. I first met her during my dialysis session at Toho University Hospital. Although she speaks English very well; sometimes she converse to me in Japanese language in order to teach me. Some words can be tricky or hard to understand but I managed to learn them by seeing their hand gestures. They tend to speak with me with lots of hand gestures and that definitely helped me a lot! I didn't feel like a patient but was treated more like a friend.
I think that's the specialty and the nobility of the Japanese people. All the people that I met are very friendly, kind and very helpful. The are very concerned people and are really very dedicated to their work! I have never seen anyone as disciplined and humble like them. I consider myself very lucky to be treated here in Japan amidst the kindest people on earth.
The doctors are excellent too. Dr Ken Sakai consulted me in his clinic prior to my admission. Once admitted, I was under Dr Hyodo's supervision. A concerned, friendly and funny doctor. He originated from the Kansai region and therefore thought me a lot of Kansai slang. The head surgeon is Professor Dr Aikawa who usually visits his patients every Tuesday mornings. A powerful surgeon but yet very humble. A patient once told us that Dr Aikawa is referred to as the 'hands of God'.
The patients were like a family. We can relate to them so well although most of us can't converse to each other at all! This was because the patients are all kidney failure patients, either on dialysis or already had their transplant surgery. We could relate by understanding their pain and sufferings and vice-versa.
At the end of June, the doctors were still debating whether to give me a plasma exchange prior to the transplantation but finally agreed to perform it one time on a day before my operation. As of early of July, my family came over to Japan. My donor was admitted on 1st of July 2010 and underwent several tests as well. My donor and I had a good HLA matching and a small trouble at T-cell matching but it was OK. We had a matching test again 48 hours before the surgery and the results were not promising. My 'blood' was rejecting my donor's. We were slightly worried but the doctor convinced us not to worry as I will undergo a plasma exchange session. My last dialysis was scheduled on 6th of July 2010 and a plasma exchange was performed thereafter. Another matching test was conducted after the procedure and the results were good; which means that the operation is on :)
Finally, Wednesday came. It was the 7th of July 2010. I was all excited but there was a problem.My donor was having a fever and the doctors needed to discuss whether to proceed with the operation. It was necessary because, if operation was performed on a sick patient, he or she is highly prone to infections. My donor somehow got better and after several discussions with the doctors, the operation was not canceled. I wasn't so excited because I was worried about my donor. I really wanted the donor to be healthy, happy and prepared for the operation.
After everything seemed well, we had our operation :)
During the operation my family were asked to wait in the ward. My husband told me that it was Dr Ken Sakai that ran to the ward and informed them that the kidney is working :)
After the operation was over, we were transferred back to our respective wards. I somehow remembered being ushered to the ward and seeing my family. I asked about the donor and glad to hear that everything is OK. I even remembered Dr Ken Sakai holding my hand, telling us everything is OK. A doctor whom shall not be forgotten by me, ever.
The recovering period was quite painful and uncomfortable but I wasn't complaining. Somehow I felt lifted and everything seemed like a dream. I was able to walk on the third day after the operation and visited my donor first. I was sadden and felt guilty to hear and see that my donor had a little trouble handling the pain. It was so honorable of the donor to be doing all this for me. I hope that the donor gets better and leads a perfect, normal and happy life forever.
My donor was discharged a week later and I was discharged a month later. I stayed at home most of the time except for going to the hospital for weekly check ups. The creatinine was quite stable and I was scheduled for a kidney biopsy three months later.
My mother took care of me for three months and left for Malaysia at the end of September. I was pampered and well taken care of during her stay.
I was admitted in the hospital, three months later and a kidney biopsy was performed. This was the hospital's procedure to ensure no rejections occur to the graft. The results returned five days later and we were happy to learn that the kidney is functioning well and there were no signs of rejection. Before being discharged, Yamashita-san came running to my ward to wish me well. I was overwhelmed to see her so caring about her patient. She said that she was anxious about the results and now relieved that everything is fine. I was speechless. I couldn't ask for better doctors or nurses.
These were my experience throughout my stay at the hospital. I am truly very grateful for all the care and the love shown. Therefore, this will be my most memorable and important moment in my life.
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Wondrous Fall
Although I have lived in a tropical-season country most of my life, I have always admired the season of fall through reading and observing pictures. Reason being; I was born in the month of October which falls in the aforementioned season :)Now, being in Japan and experiencing the season by myself, I can't stop pondering the beauty it portrays throughout the season. The weather is at its best and seeing the leaves changing its colour, thus preparing itself for winter is definitely an enjoyable experience and a breathtaking sight.
We were not lucky to enjoy the sight of the leaves changing colour in the countryside, where most trees and hills are available; but seeing the change in the city is fairly adequate. I didn't get the opportunity to capture many pictures; but only a few during our visit to Atsugi last weekend. But we had plenty of chances to observe the mesmerizing sight which confirms that some things are better be remembered and cherished in our memories forever :)
The Conqueror
It is not the mountain we conquer but ourselves. ~Edmund HillarySeptember 25th, 2010 : My mother was so kind to look after me (post-transplant) for three months. At the end of her stay, my dad came over to Japan to accompany my mom to return to Malaysia together. During the last week of their stay, we offered to bring them to Mount Fuji, since this was their first visit to Japan. Thus, visiting Japan's highest peak sounded appropriate. Besides it was doable because it was the end of summer and people were still allowed to hike the mountain. It was a memorable day. Moreover, our visit was blessed with a perfect weather. Neither was it raining nor cloudy, therefore the peak was clearly visible :)
It was an important day for me because my operation was over; just two months back and here I am almost conquering the highest peak of Japan(we didn't hike to the top). It meant a lot to me in many ways. I am now able to do things I wouldn't be able to do before due to my sickness and dialysis. I have gone through obstacles and sufferings in life; but now I feel normal and happy again. I hope to be as strong as today and continue to appreciate life and the given opportunity to live my life the fullest.
Dog Days of Summer
This may be one of the most interesting fact that I have learned thus far. It's about the brightest star in the sky, Sirius. I have been an avid, as well as a curious fan of the wonders of our universe. I have been doing a lot of reading about our very own planet, galaxy and universe. I have to say that I am mesmerized as well as astonished to learn new facts about its wonders everyday.
We have been taught about constellations at school and Orion being the most recognizable in the night sky. We have other constellations such as the Ursa Major, Ursa Minor, Canine Major and Canine minor. Likewise Sagittarius, Libra and Gemini are examples of constellations that falls under the Zodiac.
Our brightest star Sirius, is formed in the Canine Major; or the 'Big Dog'. Thus, Sirius is also named as the 'Dog Star'. The word 'Dog Days' was actually adapted by the Ancient Greek. However, it was often used by the Romans to indicate the hottest days of summer and associated the 'Dog Star' with the harsh weather. Therefore 'Dog Days' were derived from the ancient believe which associated the dog star to the hot weather because of its proximity to the sun. Today, we simply use 'Dog Days' to indicate very hot weather with dull and less activities.
Apart from the weather and the star, Sirius is also an important character portrayed in the Harry Potter series. Sirius Black was Harry's godfather. He is an Animagus which enables him to transform into a 'Big Dog' at his will. I truly respect and admire J.K.Rowling's brilliance about this matter. She must have thought about this and thus co-related Sirius Black's name and the 'Dog Star' to his dog animagi.
An interesting fact indeed :)
We have been taught about constellations at school and Orion being the most recognizable in the night sky. We have other constellations such as the Ursa Major, Ursa Minor, Canine Major and Canine minor. Likewise Sagittarius, Libra and Gemini are examples of constellations that falls under the Zodiac.
Our brightest star Sirius, is formed in the Canine Major; or the 'Big Dog'. Thus, Sirius is also named as the 'Dog Star'. The word 'Dog Days' was actually adapted by the Ancient Greek. However, it was often used by the Romans to indicate the hottest days of summer and associated the 'Dog Star' with the harsh weather. Therefore 'Dog Days' were derived from the ancient believe which associated the dog star to the hot weather because of its proximity to the sun. Today, we simply use 'Dog Days' to indicate very hot weather with dull and less activities.
Apart from the weather and the star, Sirius is also an important character portrayed in the Harry Potter series. Sirius Black was Harry's godfather. He is an Animagus which enables him to transform into a 'Big Dog' at his will. I truly respect and admire J.K.Rowling's brilliance about this matter. She must have thought about this and thus co-related Sirius Black's name and the 'Dog Star' to his dog animagi.
An interesting fact indeed :)
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
A Passion For Onigiri
I know it has been some time since I last blogged. I know that I was expected to write about my transplant and its related issues but I am not. Maybe not just yet. I am going to write about my passion for food instead. My passion for onigiri.
Onigiri is a japanese food. It is a rice ball covered with seaweed. The rice is usually filled with certain ingredients. My favorite filling is tuna with mayonnaise. It's very easy to prepare and can be served as a healthy snack. I have not tried making onigiri all by myself yet, but I will surely attempt to make one soon. For the time being, I am just enjoying the triangular rice ball readily available at various stores.
I have visited Japan twice in 2008 and have been living here in Yokohama since January 2010, but I should admit that I have not tried onigiri even once. My passion was for sushi then :)
We went to Atsugi last weekend and had a very simple lunch due to certain circumstances. My husband opted for onigiri while I ate a cake. I braved out and told my husband that I would like to have a bite, wanting to try the snack for the very first time. I did. It was marvelous until my brain buzzed with a passionate current.
So, that was it. It just took me a single bite. I have been relishing it since then.
My latest passion, onigiri.
At least for the time being :)
Onigiri is a japanese food. It is a rice ball covered with seaweed. The rice is usually filled with certain ingredients. My favorite filling is tuna with mayonnaise. It's very easy to prepare and can be served as a healthy snack. I have not tried making onigiri all by myself yet, but I will surely attempt to make one soon. For the time being, I am just enjoying the triangular rice ball readily available at various stores.
I have visited Japan twice in 2008 and have been living here in Yokohama since January 2010, but I should admit that I have not tried onigiri even once. My passion was for sushi then :)
We went to Atsugi last weekend and had a very simple lunch due to certain circumstances. My husband opted for onigiri while I ate a cake. I braved out and told my husband that I would like to have a bite, wanting to try the snack for the very first time. I did. It was marvelous until my brain buzzed with a passionate current.
So, that was it. It just took me a single bite. I have been relishing it since then.
My latest passion, onigiri.
At least for the time being :)
Monday, October 11, 2010
Happy Birthday
I started my very first dialysis, exactly two years ago.
Two years had passed and here I am today, standing freely and smiling.
I am off-dialysis and living an almost normal life and contented with what I am today.
Yes, my transplant is over. It's a success and I am tremendously happy about it.
Tomorrow is my birthday.
I have successfully overcame the worst. I have been given another beautiful chance to live my life again.
The best birthday wish anyone could wish for.
It's like being born again.
Thanks to everyone involved in making this happen.
Happy birthday,me :)
Two years had passed and here I am today, standing freely and smiling.
I am off-dialysis and living an almost normal life and contented with what I am today.
Yes, my transplant is over. It's a success and I am tremendously happy about it.
Tomorrow is my birthday.
I have successfully overcame the worst. I have been given another beautiful chance to live my life again.
The best birthday wish anyone could wish for.
It's like being born again.
Thanks to everyone involved in making this happen.
Happy birthday,me :)
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
My Best Wishes
My best wishes for the well being of kenodi, without whom I wouldn't be able to undergo kidney transplant.
I can almost see the light at the end of the tunnel, therefore
I wish that my next blog will be written by a renewed me :)
My best wishes for the care takers of the world, without whom dialysis and medical procedures will be disastrous and unimaginable.
My best wishes for my mother for her sacrifices, never ending sorrows and for being here for me.
My best wishes for cao-cao for your patience, support, determination and thanks for making it happen.
And my best wishes for my donor for having extraordinary strength to undergo this; who chose operation instead of a regular life. You have such a pure heart, and strong and noble.My best wishes for my mother for her sacrifices, never ending sorrows and for being here for me.
My best wishes for cao-cao for your patience, support, determination and thanks for making it happen.
I can almost see the light at the end of the tunnel, therefore
I wish that my next blog will be written by a renewed me :)
Monday, July 5, 2010
Gray Matter
I'm still in the hospital. Transplant is scheduled this Wednesday. I didn't have many tests for the past one week except for dialysis. Tomorrow is a big day. I have my last (fingers crossed) dialysis and a plasma exchange thereafter. After several discussions, meetings and tests, the doctors agreed to give me one session of plasma exchange (PE) as precautionary treatment before kidney transplant. I will start my immunosuppressant drugs tomorrow, to suppress my immune system and thus avoid any rejections.
We had a long meeting with the head surgeon this afternoon and signed the necessary documents. He explained about the surgery. My family joined the meeting as well. After the tiring session, I headed to the dialysis center, while my mom waited at the ward.
After dialysis, as I lay lazily on the bed, I asked my mom to check if I have any gray hair. I'm 31 this year and I always brag that I don't even have a single gray hair. My sister, on the other hand, has lots and she's only 29. My husband started to have lots, even in his facial hair, but me...nope! And I'm actually proud of it; showing off and bragging about my shiny gray-less mane to whomever willing to listen. Well, I guess I can't do it anymore. It was devastating. My mom found a single gray strand today. It was unbelievable. I checked and detested that it was not a gray hair. Actually it doesn't look gray at all, maybe (just maybe) slightly silvery.
Anyways, what the heck! I'm just getting wiser! I'll just brag about it then after this.
Any listeners??
We had a long meeting with the head surgeon this afternoon and signed the necessary documents. He explained about the surgery. My family joined the meeting as well. After the tiring session, I headed to the dialysis center, while my mom waited at the ward.
After dialysis, as I lay lazily on the bed, I asked my mom to check if I have any gray hair. I'm 31 this year and I always brag that I don't even have a single gray hair. My sister, on the other hand, has lots and she's only 29. My husband started to have lots, even in his facial hair, but me...nope! And I'm actually proud of it; showing off and bragging about my shiny gray-less mane to whomever willing to listen. Well, I guess I can't do it anymore. It was devastating. My mom found a single gray strand today. It was unbelievable. I checked and detested that it was not a gray hair. Actually it doesn't look gray at all, maybe (just maybe) slightly silvery.
Anyways, what the heck! I'm just getting wiser! I'll just brag about it then after this.
Any listeners??
Thursday, July 1, 2010
A Hat Story
This is a story of a hat.
My hat.
It all started in Seiyu, a shopping complex located near our apartment. Satya and I were looking for a jacket but ended up trying hats instead. I specifically liked a hat. It was beautiful, chic and cool. But we didn't buy it (though deep inside I wished that I had) as we were supposed to look for a jacket. We didn't get a jacket either.
We went back home and Satya noticed that I really liked the hat. So, he told me to just get it the next day. I couldn't be happier. We went back to the store the very next day only to find the hat, gone. Someone has got it before me and it was the last piece. I was slightly disappointed but got over it soon.
It was all fine and dandy until Satya suggested that the hat may still be available at other Seiyu(s). The devil inside me grew greedily excited and one fine afternoon, after my dialysis session, I googled for nearest Seiyu, found how to get there and headed to the store.
It was a bigger store, so I walked enthusiastically and confidently to the hats department. I found the hat of course, but it was a bigger size. Feeling disappointed and utterly mad for being greedy, I turned around and walked to a nearby escalator and to my astonishment found another hat section!
And there it was. Nicely displayed, teasing me to grab it. I did, and ended up buying it. I wear it most of the time. Rainy, sunny, I wear it everyday. It was there on top of my head all the time; protecting me.
I even wore it during out trip to Yamagata to meet up Satya's friends. I wore it during the barbecue party, at the restaurants, at Keio University and even at a shopping complex. Then I remember putting it inside my bag before going for dinner with friends. When it's time to leave, I noticed that my hat was gone...missing. I panicked and looked everywhere but it was no where to be found. We couldn't stay longer to search, as we were late for our bus. We told our friends to look for it after we have left. They did, but it was never found.
That's the story of my hat. My lost hat. Stranded somewhere in Yamagata; tremendously missed by me :(
Remembering You
What does not kill us makes us stronger.
Friedrich Nietzsche
I was once admitted in the hospital for having excruciating pain on my thumb (reactive arthritis). It was badly swollen, inflamed and the pain was unbearable. It was a Sunday, so I was taken to the emergency department and admitted thereafter. I was warded in a two-bed room; and the patient next to me was a lady in her early thirties.
She looked well and bubbly. I couldn't think that she had any illness at all. We spoke and I told her that I was admitted for my joint pain and elevated ESR. I added that the doctors are yet to find the reasons.
She has lung cancer.
It started with continuous irritating cough for months and after several tests, she was diagnosed with lung cancer. She told me that she never smoked and non of the family members smoked either. She didn't know why she has it. The reason of her admission is to give her a 'port' and to start chemotherapy immediately. I have never seen her sulk even once, during my short stay. She was happy and bubbly as ever.
I got discharged and I met her again at the hospital lobby few weeks later. I noticed her head- scarf (obviously suffering due to the side effects of chemo drugs). She was still smiling and cheerful. She asked me concernedly, if the doctors have diagnosed my illness. I shrugged and said no.
I never saw her again. I will always remember her for her courage and determination. She inspires me in many ways though she didn't know any of this at all. I would like to dedicate this post to her. I wish for your happiness. I hope your sufferings have ended; and may you live a prosperously healthy life ever after.
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Young Victoria
Victoria: Why did you do it?
Albert: I had two very good reasons. First, I am replaceable and you are not.
Victoria: You are not replaceable to me.
Albert: Second... you are the only wife I've got or ever will have. You are my whole existence and I will love until my last breath.
Albert: I had two very good reasons. First, I am replaceable and you are not.
Victoria: You are not replaceable to me.
Albert: Second... you are the only wife I've got or ever will have. You are my whole existence and I will love until my last breath.
I love the movie. I love everything about the film. I love the music. It's magnificent and listening to its soundtrack soothes me. The movie (spoiler alert!) is about Queen Victoria's early reign; how she became the queen and the story emphasizes on her romance/marriage with Prince Albert. The best part is the dialogue above. It was the most emotional moment. I cried during that part. Prince Albert got shot while trying to protect Queen Victoria. They had a fight the night before. Prince Albert said those beautiful words when he was asked why he had protected her. It was overwhelmingly wonderful.
I 'googled' about Queen Victoria immediately after watching the movie and found some interesting facts about her. She reigned as a queen for 63 years and those long period was known as the Victorian Era. She had nine children. After the death of her husband, Prince Albert; she mourned by wearing black for the rest of her life. It was truly magnificent.
Nishiguchi Dialysis Clinic
Satya and I arrived at Tsurumi, Yokohama on 4th of January 2010 and the first place we visited was Nishiguchi Dialysis Clinic. I was greeted by a very kind lady named, Kamba-san. She ushered me to a nearby bed and they started my dialysis right away.
I was terrified in the beginning as I don't speak Japanese and I feared that I would not be able to express myself better. But my fear was wiped away immediately. All the nurses are very kind, and I felt so comfortable and welcomed. My first dialysis at Japan went well and there were no side-effects after.
Nishiguchi dialysis clinic is located within ten minutes walking distance from our apartment. Initially, I only needed twice dialysis sessions per week. But it seemed inadequate as my blood pressure increased and I felt sick. Then, I started having three times dialysis sessions per week and it improved my condition a lot. My blood pressure was controlled and my pulse rate became normal. I couldn't feel happier.
The nurses are all very friendly and they kept a translated medical book (Japanese to English) to ask me bout my medical conditions. Kamba-san usually recommends interesting places to visit in Japan and we managed to visit many beautiful places because of her.
The patients don't converse during dialysis sessions. However we greet each other at the beginning or end of our dialysis sessions. I specifically like the patients at my left and opposite bed. They always greet me kindly and wish me well. The oba-san opposite my bed greets me in English while I reply her in Japanese language. She is a very cool lady. I like her a lot! If only my Japanese language was better, I would have made tremendous effort to get to know her better.
My dialysis sessions are on Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings. I usually watch TV during my dialysis sessions and I specifically got interested in Korean dramas; which are aired every morning on weekdays. Spring Waltz was my favourite! Kamba-san and another wonderful nurse, named Chie Ito-san loved it too. Chie-san is a very kind, humble and dedicated nurse. She speaks good English and communicating with her is fun. I really can't thank her enough and she taught me a lot about Japanese culture/celebration.
Yesterday was my last dialysis session in Nishiguchi Dialysis Clinic. I was admitted in Toho University Hospital yesterday afternoon and I will continue a few more dialysis sessions here before my transplant. I am not sure if I would be able to meet the wonderful staff and the patients again but I would like to dedicate this post to them and I would like to thank them for their kindness and hospitality.
THANK YOU VERY MUCH NISHIGUCHI STAFF. LOVE YOU ALL :)
I was terrified in the beginning as I don't speak Japanese and I feared that I would not be able to express myself better. But my fear was wiped away immediately. All the nurses are very kind, and I felt so comfortable and welcomed. My first dialysis at Japan went well and there were no side-effects after.
Nishiguchi dialysis clinic is located within ten minutes walking distance from our apartment. Initially, I only needed twice dialysis sessions per week. But it seemed inadequate as my blood pressure increased and I felt sick. Then, I started having three times dialysis sessions per week and it improved my condition a lot. My blood pressure was controlled and my pulse rate became normal. I couldn't feel happier.
The nurses are all very friendly and they kept a translated medical book (Japanese to English) to ask me bout my medical conditions. Kamba-san usually recommends interesting places to visit in Japan and we managed to visit many beautiful places because of her.
The patients don't converse during dialysis sessions. However we greet each other at the beginning or end of our dialysis sessions. I specifically like the patients at my left and opposite bed. They always greet me kindly and wish me well. The oba-san opposite my bed greets me in English while I reply her in Japanese language. She is a very cool lady. I like her a lot! If only my Japanese language was better, I would have made tremendous effort to get to know her better.
My dialysis sessions are on Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings. I usually watch TV during my dialysis sessions and I specifically got interested in Korean dramas; which are aired every morning on weekdays. Spring Waltz was my favourite! Kamba-san and another wonderful nurse, named Chie Ito-san loved it too. Chie-san is a very kind, humble and dedicated nurse. She speaks good English and communicating with her is fun. I really can't thank her enough and she taught me a lot about Japanese culture/celebration.
Yesterday was my last dialysis session in Nishiguchi Dialysis Clinic. I was admitted in Toho University Hospital yesterday afternoon and I will continue a few more dialysis sessions here before my transplant. I am not sure if I would be able to meet the wonderful staff and the patients again but I would like to dedicate this post to them and I would like to thank them for their kindness and hospitality.
THANK YOU VERY MUCH NISHIGUCHI STAFF. LOVE YOU ALL :)
Walking Down The Memory Lane
I grew up as a happy kid with a loving family. I consider myself as the luckiest person on earth, being provided everything I wish for. I graduated and then started working in Kuala Lumpur sometime in 2003. My now husband, Satya (my university sweetheart then) left for japan to continue his studies. Our long distance relationship went well and I continued my life independently.
We decided to get married in 2007 but that is when I started having fevers and joint inflammations. I started having inflammations at different joints every week (knee, thumb,toe). I was suspected to have reactive arthritis and therefore prescribed NSAIDs to ease the pain. Blood tests were done almost every week and the results were negative for major autoimmune diseases. It was quite frustrating to have all kinds of pain while not being able to identify the cause.
In March 2007, my renal profile was checked and the doctors (I had 2 doctors) noticed an increase in the creatinine level (195umol/L). The kidneys maintain the blood creatinine at a normal range (53-88umol/L). High creatinine levels indicate possible failure of the kidneys. The doctor recommend a kidney biopsy to be done immediately. I was therefore referred to a nephrologist. I had no idea on the seriousness of my health condition then, because I looked totally healthy. Besides, the nephrologist seemed relaxed and scheduled me for a biopsy after one week. We were not convinced, therefore we consulted another nephrologist and he performed the kidney biopsy the very next day. Satya returned from Japan and we continued our wedding plan. Then one fine evening, my nephrologist called and told me that he has bad news. My biopsy results returned. My kidney tissues are globally scarred and that means I have chronic kidney disease.
I was totally shocked and devastated as chronic kidney disease is irreversible. When kidney disease progresses, it may eventually lead to kidney failure, which requires dialysis or kidney transplant to maintain life. I was admitted on the very same day and was given steroids to stop further damage to the kidneys. As of end of April 2007, my creatinine was 388umol/L. I was hospitalized for three days and Satya was beside me all the time. We were told that female kidney patients are not recommended to conceive and I must follow a very strict diet (low fluids, low protein, low phosphate, low potassium and low salt). I silently thought that wedding is out of the question.
Then one day, Satya came to visit me looking dashing, wearing a formal shirt which is most inappropriate for visiting someone on a sick bed. He took my hand, and brought me to the hospital's chapel. As we walked, I noticed the nurses giggling and I knew what was coming. Blood rushed to my face and as we enter, a nurse was recording 'the event' using Satya's camcorder. I grew excited, shocked and surprised! He told me to sit and he took out a violin from its hidden place and started fiddling my ultimate favourite music. I was overwhelmed, I cried. He knew that I love violin. He had been learning all the while and kept it a secret! Then he proposed. It seems that he got the ring a year back! It was beautiful!
I was discharged and we got married after 3 weeks! It was a simple, but beautiful wedding. I was terribly weak due to the side effects of the steroids, yet it didn't stop me from being happy. Steroids side effects include vision problems, shortness of breath, high blood pressure, mood swings, sleeping disorders, acne, thinning skin, bruising, slow wound healing, increased sweating, headache, nausea and moon face syndrome.
Satya extended his leave and moved with me to Kuala Lumpur. I canceled my leave and went back to work. Those were the happiest moment. We enjoy going shopping, practicing yoga and watching movie together.
Everything was going well till one night, I had the most disastrous stomachache. I vomited a few times and thought it was food poisoning. We rushed to the emergency department and I was confirmed to have appendicitis. I was admitted in the morning and was only operated at night. Imagine the pain I went through the whole day. The appendix was perforated but I was OK.
Then in August 2007, the doctor gave us another bad news. We learned that the steroids did not work and my kidneys continued to fail at an alarming rate. Reasons still unknown :(
Satya couldn't extend his leave any longer, therefore returned to Japan. That was the saddest moment. We were so happy together. I couldn't follow him as I needed weekly hospital treatment.
Then 2008 came, I took medical leave and stayed with my parents temporarily in Ipoh. In early October 2008, I was breathless and had excruciating pain on my lower left chest. We rushed to the hospital and I was admitted for pneumonia. The doctor advised that I start dialysis soon. I was devastated again. I hoped to have a kidney transplant without being on dialysis ever. My mom was so kind that she was willing to donate her kidney. But the progress (tests for transplantation) was very slow. I had no options but to start dialysis. There I was in the hospital, started my very first dialysis a day before my 29th birthday!
I quit my job and started my dialysis. My mother took care of me as dialysis was disastrous for me. I always end up having headache and sometimes vomiting. It took me a very very long time to adapt to dialysis.
Satya returned in February 2009 and in March 2009 I had increased pulse rate and my blood pressure was very high. I was referred to a heart specialist and an ECG confirmed that I have heart failure but it was reversible. Thank goodness! My blood pressure and hemoglobin was monitored.
Then, in December 2009, Satya got a job in Japan and he were to leave on January 2010. In the meantime, we received shocking news (after 2 years of multiple tests) that my mother's kidney would not match. It was a hopeless moment as it meant dialysis for the rest of my life. That's when my husband's friend, Dr Nozumo Yachie (an angel in disguise) suggested that i get treatment in Japan. He referred me to a family doctor and thus was introduced to Dr.Ken Sakai (another angel in disguise). We didn't expect this at all. After some last minute arrangements, we finally flew to Japan together.
I received my dialysis treatment at Nishiguchi Dialysis Clinic, nearby our apartment. In the meantime, I visited Dr Ken Sakai's clinic at Toho University Hospital every month, preparing for kidney transplant. A few 'angels' offered to donate their kidneys and finally we found a match!
In May 2010, I was admitted in Toho University Hospital for two weeks and several tests were done preparing me for the transplant. The operation was finally scheduled in July 2010. Now I am awaiting for the transplant procedure.
That gives me hope :)
If the transplant is successful, I can resume a normal (well maybe almost) life while following a strict medical regime. There are no greater things for me to ask. I am tremendously grateful to my donor, thankful to the doctors and thankful for this great opportunity I was given. Let's just hope for the best as my journey continues...
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Cooking Delights
The single thing I dread the most is cooking! It requires patience, skills, exceptionally functioning tongue to taste the food and also tolerance(well maybe this is for those who eat the food I prepare). My husband is a foodie and it takes quite a deal to satisfy his great, demanding tummy.
I have never cooked my whole life, therefore I often become the victim of my sisters' jokes which include remarks that I don't even know how to cut onions. Well, both of my sisters can cook well. My elder sister can even prepare excellent dishes for our Christmas feast and that's saying something as we usually have many friends and relatives visiting us for Christmas.
I have food restrictions and I'm on a special diet because of my sickness. That means eating out is usually out of the question and we need to eat balanced, home cooked food most of the time. My husband is an excellent cook and he usually prepares his 'sambal ayam' some weekends whereas I diligently took the honor to do the cooking during weekdays. I started slowly, experimenting(with occasional guidance from my mom and the web) and it turned out to be OK! I can cook and my husband actually enjoys them(maybe most of the time).
I have cooked dishes I have never dreamed of preparing such as nasi lemak, azuki porridge, salmon curry (my very own creation), roasted chicken, grilled salmon and pepper chicken (my mom's ultimate creation). I even managed to bake a chocolate cake and surprised my husband for his birthday!
I wouldn't say that I'm great but I am OK. In fact I actually enjoy doing it these days. Well, anything is possible and it just takes a little effort to start and get going. There is always room for improvement.
Now, if you will excuse me...I have a salmon curry to prepare :)
I have never cooked my whole life, therefore I often become the victim of my sisters' jokes which include remarks that I don't even know how to cut onions. Well, both of my sisters can cook well. My elder sister can even prepare excellent dishes for our Christmas feast and that's saying something as we usually have many friends and relatives visiting us for Christmas.
I have food restrictions and I'm on a special diet because of my sickness. That means eating out is usually out of the question and we need to eat balanced, home cooked food most of the time. My husband is an excellent cook and he usually prepares his 'sambal ayam' some weekends whereas I diligently took the honor to do the cooking during weekdays. I started slowly, experimenting(with occasional guidance from my mom and the web) and it turned out to be OK! I can cook and my husband actually enjoys them(maybe most of the time).
I have cooked dishes I have never dreamed of preparing such as nasi lemak, azuki porridge, salmon curry (my very own creation), roasted chicken, grilled salmon and pepper chicken (my mom's ultimate creation). I even managed to bake a chocolate cake and surprised my husband for his birthday!
I wouldn't say that I'm great but I am OK. In fact I actually enjoy doing it these days. Well, anything is possible and it just takes a little effort to start and get going. There is always room for improvement.
Now, if you will excuse me...I have a salmon curry to prepare :)
Michael Gambon's Dumbledore
J.K Rowling's Harry Potter books have definitely been our favourite to date. My husband and I always discuss about the story and we aspire (or maybe simply day-dream) to be associated with the wizarding world. Imagine having your own wand and being able to perform magic with it!....wow....
OK! Imaginations aside...
We were watching the Harry Potter movie series (again!) the other day and I can't help noticing the acting of Michael Gambon's Dumbledore. Dumbledore being our favourite character and being one of the most powerful wizards of all time should have been portrayed as powerful, fatherly, protective or simply dumbledore-ish!
I personally think that Richard Harris (RIP) played the part very well in the first two films. But as for Michael Gambon ...hmmm...whenever I watch him as Dumbledore, I can't help complaining to my husband that he's too weak. He seemed not to 'know' Dumbledore and I suspected that he has never read the books; therefore failing to portray the character well.
I was right! We were watching the news about Universal Orlando's Harry Potter theme park yesterday in which came one of the interviews with Michael Gambon saying that he has not read the books. How disappointing!(not forgetting the smugness on my face and continuously irritating my husband by saying 'I told you so!')
Well, no point arguing now as they have completed the filming of the last movie. Let's just keep our fingers crossed and hope that the movie will be as good as the book.
Monday, June 21, 2010
Spring Cleaning
My mother and my sister will be visiting us next week. Me and my husband are currently residing in Tsurumi, Yokohama. We came here in January and I didn't get to see my parents for almost 6 months! I studied in Johor Bahru, Malaysia and my home town is Ipoh. Even then, I always visit them once a month. I also make it a ritual to go back home twice a month when I was working in Kuala Lumpur.
Now I get to see them after 6 months, it's time to get busy. I started cleaning our apartment. "But it's already clean...what is there to clean?" I ignored my husband's comment and started dusting off all the stuff, wiped them clean, vacuumed the tatami, mopped it and vacuumed again. Then I started cleaning the kitchen.
This is supposed to be the rainy season (tsuyu) in Japan, but it's quite hot and it rarely rains. I grabbed this opportunity to do extra laundry. I washed the mat, towels and the bed spread. Then i started cleaning the bathroom. By the time i finished it, i could barely stand. My back ached so much. My husband offered to help and we both finished cleaning.
Our apartment looked sparkly clean; putting a big smile on my face. I was still excited; therefore unable to sleep or even rest. I suggested that we go shopping and my wonderful husband agreed right away!
We headed to the Yokohama station, strolled along and my eyes caught a nice pair of sandals. I have big feet and it's usually very hard to get shoes my size in Japan. But not today! They have my size, it fitted well and I get to buy it at last! We ate kebab later that night and went back home feeling extremely happy.
Now I get to see them after 6 months, it's time to get busy. I started cleaning our apartment. "But it's already clean...what is there to clean?" I ignored my husband's comment and started dusting off all the stuff, wiped them clean, vacuumed the tatami, mopped it and vacuumed again. Then I started cleaning the kitchen.
This is supposed to be the rainy season (tsuyu) in Japan, but it's quite hot and it rarely rains. I grabbed this opportunity to do extra laundry. I washed the mat, towels and the bed spread. Then i started cleaning the bathroom. By the time i finished it, i could barely stand. My back ached so much. My husband offered to help and we both finished cleaning.
Our apartment looked sparkly clean; putting a big smile on my face. I was still excited; therefore unable to sleep or even rest. I suggested that we go shopping and my wonderful husband agreed right away!
We headed to the Yokohama station, strolled along and my eyes caught a nice pair of sandals. I have big feet and it's usually very hard to get shoes my size in Japan. But not today! They have my size, it fitted well and I get to buy it at last! We ate kebab later that night and went back home feeling extremely happy.
Friday, June 18, 2010
Hajimemashite!
Greetings!
I have been procrastinating this for a very long time now.
I always wanted to start my own blog, my very own space where I can write and share to the world about all the wonderful things that had happened in my life; and here I am victorious at last!
I always had this habit of jotting down every single thing in a piece of paper whenever I am down spirited. That is how I have always been. Without doubt, it helps me to think of the problem, solve it independently and move on.
With this blog, I hope I can tell you my life adventures, all the nicest and also the hardest endeavors, my struggle and battle for a better health, all the wonderful people I am surrounded with and also my thoughts on various issues.
And so, it begins...
I have been procrastinating this for a very long time now.
I always wanted to start my own blog, my very own space where I can write and share to the world about all the wonderful things that had happened in my life; and here I am victorious at last!
I always had this habit of jotting down every single thing in a piece of paper whenever I am down spirited. That is how I have always been. Without doubt, it helps me to think of the problem, solve it independently and move on.
With this blog, I hope I can tell you my life adventures, all the nicest and also the hardest endeavors, my struggle and battle for a better health, all the wonderful people I am surrounded with and also my thoughts on various issues.
And so, it begins...