Video: Portable dialysis machine gives kidney patients freedom

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Patients on kidney dialysis now have another option -- a portable machine than can go almost anywhere.

Joyce and Ken Eiler had to give up on traveling to dog shows with their prize-winning Samoyeds after Ken’s kidneys failed unexpectedly and he had to go on dialysis.

“I had to be at the center three times a week and basically I'd get there at six o’clock in the morning and wouldn't get home till 11:30, 12 o’clock. I was on that machine for four and a half hours and I'd be wiped out the rest of the day,” said Ken.

That was before the NxStage system – the first portable dialysis machine approved by the Food and Drug Administration. It weighs only 75 pounds. Treatments take only two hours and can be done anytime and practically anywhere.

“It's more like normal kidney function. They're getting more dialysis. Their blood work looks better, they feel better. They have more control over their life,” said nurse Sara Reasener.

Ken has now outfitted his RV for his dogs and his portable dialysis machine. On the road and at home, Joyce helps with the setup six times a week.

KING

The NxStage portable kidney dialysis machine weighs 75 pounds and treatments take only two hours.

“Anyway you look at it, this type of equipment is a lifesaver. But you know what? There's no substitution for a kidney. We need kidney donors,” said Ken.

While Ken waits for his donor, he now has his freedom.

“The main thing is I can get out and do things. It doesn't stop us. It just means you plan your day around it. It's one more thing you've got to do,” said Ken.

About the only thing Ken has to give up is foreign travel, but he says as soon as he gets a kidney transplant, he and his wife will be heading to Africa.