Living Well with Kidney Disease

2026-06-19 Facebook Live - Kidney Q&A

• Dialysis Patient Citizens

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0:00 | 29:40

FB Live – June 17th: In this episode of Ask the Doctor, Dr. Velma Scantlebury answers patient questions about the emotional and physical challenges of living with kidney disease. From managing anxiety and stress to understanding the importance of ongoing heart care and traveling confidently while on dialysis, Dr. Scantlebury provides practical advice to these questions, along with many other kidney-related topics! 

Living with kidney disease can be overwhelming, and feelings of anxiety and stress are common. Dr. Scantlebury discusses the importance of recognizing that these emotions are real and valid. Whether stress stems from health concerns, dialysis treatments, transplant uncertainty, or everyday life challenges, patients should know they are not alone. She encourages listeners to seek support from their primary care provider, nephrologist, therapist, or other mental health professionals who can help them develop healthy coping strategies. 

Many patients are surprised to learn that seeing a cardiologist remains important even after receiving a kidney transplant. Dr. Scantlebury explains how years of kidney disease and dialysis can place significant strain on the heart, potentially contributing to conditions such as cardiomyopathy and other forms of cardiovascular disease. While transplantation can improve many aspects of health, ongoing cardiac monitoring helps ensure that heart-related issues are identified and managed early. 

Many dialysis patients hesitate to travel because they are concerned about receiving treatment away from their home center. Dr. Scantlebury reassures patients that travel is possible with proper planning. She recommends working closely with your dialysis center and travel coordinator well in advance, researching dialysis facilities at your destination, and remaining flexible if treatment options require traveling a little farther than expected. With preparation and support, dialysis does not have to prevent you from visiting family, taking vacations, or exploring new places. 

This episode reminds patients that caring for both their physical and emotional health is essential, and that kidney disease does not have to define or limit their lives. 

We invite you to join us for our live events and ask your kidney-related questions! Find us on both Instagram and Facebook: 

  • IG Live @patientcitizens  
  • Facebook Live www.facebook.com/patientcitizens