Beverly Givens, Jackson, TN
Starting at the age of 15, heading to dialysis treatments three times a week has been a part of life for Jackson, Tenn., patient Beverly Givens. When she marked 30 years on dialysis in 2016, Givens shared her tips for other DCI kidney patients seeking longevity:
1. Try to listen to the doctors and nurses regarding your care.
2. Try to follow your diet and meds as ordered.
3. Come to treatments as prescribed.
As she celebrates 37 years on dialysis this month, Beverly shares her insights on managing her health and living a fulfilling life surrounded by family and friends.
“I’m thankful that I’m still living and that I’m able to get around and do everything that I need to do for myself and my family, and that I can do it myself,” Beverly said.
At age 51, Beverly is surrounded by four generations of family –
“the best mother in the world,” her siblings, three adult children,
six grandchildren and six great grandchildren – so maintaining her health is important. They recently celebrated her grandson’s high school graduation.
“I think being compliant to the doctor and your care team is the upmost of being able to stay and doing what you need to do for yourself,” she said. “You’ll be able to live long and have a more healthy lifestyle if you’re complaint with what the doctors ask.”
“Talking to the doctor, telling them your problems and your thoughts helps in your care and helps them take care of you as well,” Beverly said.
Beverly considers the patients dialyzing beside her as family and looks out for them. “She’s concerned about her health, but also about the other patients,” said DCI Jackson Social Worker Sonya Dilworth. “She offers them support regarding their illness.”
“The best way to pass time is I talk to my friend on the right and my friend on the left,” she said, talking about food, recipes, cooking and eating.
“They’re a great family, they check on you when you’re sick,” she said.
Now, as she celebrates another year of her life on dialysis, she shares her story with others to help newer patients along in their journey.
“It’s been a long, hard road, but it’s been an easy road I can say.”
Congratulations to Beverly on celebrating 37 years on dialysis.