Glenda and Sherman Take Peritoneal Dialysis on the Road

As long-haul truck drivers, Sherman and Glenda knew they needed to find a treatment option that worked with their busy work travel schedule. With the support of their care teams, they were both able to choose peritoneal dialysis and dialyze right from their truck!

Glenda first started dialysis in 2008 after dealing with frequent kidney infections, which led to kidney failure. As a truck driver, she didn’t want to give up her career for dialysis. Within six months of doing peritoneal dialysis at home, she was comfortable enough to take it on the road.

“It was like getting a new lease on life,” says Glenda. “I could still do what I wanted. I didn't have to give it up. It was something I enjoyed doing.”

With Glenda’s encouragement, Sherman was also checked and diagnosed with kidney disease. At first, he managed it with medication but eventually needed dialysis. After watching Glenda, Sherman knew that home dialysis was the right choice for him. He was trained and started peritoneal dialysis treatments.

Sherman was grateful to also find a treatment option that kept him on the road.

“I got to travel all the time and see different parts of the country, see different things, and meet different people. I just love driving, always did.”

Glenda retired from truck driving in 2016 and started a new job at a local grocery store. She’s happy to keep working while continuing to treat at home. Sherman joined her in retirement and has continued peritoneal dialysis with Glenda as his care partner. The couple stays busy travelling and enjoying activities together.

“I've had a wonderful life being on dialysis,” says Glenda. “It's been great for me. We go camping. You can go do anything.”

Today, Sherman and Glenda help each other feel their best. They both eat healthy, take their medications, and have a system in place to complete their dialysis treatments. They also work together to encourage others to not give up on their careers and try the flexibility of home dialysis.

“Don't give up. Don't, don't, don't give up. It works and it makes you feel so much better,” says Glenda.