An important realisation
Today marked my third dialysis treatment session. My family came to visit me today and asked me how I was doing. Although I was pretty much in pain, I gritted my teeth and told them that I have been doing great. I couldn't bear to watch my family worry.

To lighten the heavy atmosphere there, I shared with them my knowledge of the dialysis machine and how it works as a kidney. My two kids were amazed and were shooting me with a whole lot of questions at once. All of us had a really great time chatting together and it dawned on me that I have never really made time for my family in the past. I was too focused on my career! It felt really rare that all of us could be together talking and laughing as a family.

I realised that, with my family by my side, I could actually withstand the pain that I was facing. I must fight on and get well, for the sake of my family.

- Duane Joakims

(Posted by Li Ting)