A Moment Under the Stars at 5:15 AM

At 5:15 this morning, I stepped outside to leave for dialysis and looked up.

Above the roof of the house, a constellation shone through the early morning darkness. Stars dotted the deep blue sky, framed by clouds and tree silhouettes. Before getting on my way, I paused to take in the view.

Leaving for dialysis before sunrise is part of my routine. There is a schedule to keep and a long morning ahead. But today, there was also this small moment outside my own front door—a chance to breathe and notice something beautiful.

I took this picture to carry a little of that moment with me. The appointment still waited, but the stars gave me something else to think about as I headed out.

Sometimes, a quiet moment looking up is a good way to begin the day.

A Backpack With a Particular Set of Skills

Today, I went to Costco to get a new backpack.

Full transparency: I also picked up some Harry’s razors to try—and some underwear. I know, TMI.

I have a habit of collecting backpacks, among other things. It’s my addictive personality manifesting itself. This time, however, I needed a backpack with “a particular set of skills.”

This backpack will be my dialysis bag.

I prefer a backpack because it keeps my hands free—or at least one hand, since I use the other to hold a cane when I walk. It’s a simple thing, but having everything comfortably on my back makes getting around much easier.

My dialysis backpack needs a compartment large enough to hold two small blankets because the treatment room can get very cold. It also has to fit a neck pillow and a Bluetooth headset sleep mask, which is essential for helping me sleep during treatment and making the time pass faster.

Then there are the practical necessities: water, snacks in case my blood sugar gets low, a pocket for papers, and room for all the other ancillary stuff that comes with treatment.

Some folks arrive with several enormous reusable grocery bags. Others bring carry-on suitcases. One lady brings a collapsible wagon loaded with all kinds of supplies.

When I travel, I’m notorious for packing too much. But for dialysis, I like to keep things light, organized, and ready in the car.

I get it done with a backpack—one that has a very particular set of skills.