Hi Everyone,
This is a post that I’ve started to write on two occasions before today but chickened out.
Or, at least, I felt the need to have more information before I shared what’s going on with me.
No, it’s not cancer (I don’t think!), thank God, but it is something to be taken seriously.
Okay, I’ll just blurt it out.
My kidneys are packing up on me.
There, I’ll let you take that in for a second.
No, it’s not total kidney failure– yet, but if something doesn’t change and soon, I’m heading in that direction.
I’ve known this for the last 3.5 years, but in the last year, my kidney function has worsened.
Is this related to the renovation?
Well, that certainly hasn’t helped anything, but I don’t think it’s the reason. I nearly told you when I was talking about the painter who left me with a filthy air scrubber that was only making the place more toxic, not any cleaner. I had told him about my condition which just makes his negligence all the more enraging.
Please know that I’m under the care of a wonderful nephrologist at Mass General.
The other thing and this is super important to understand, is that I am asymptomatic for having kidney disease.
This is typical for a lot of people because the kidneys are very good at hiding their dysfunction until they pretty much stop working altogether.
In other words, if I hadn’t gone for my annual checkups and blood work, I wouldn’t be the wiser. So folks, if you aren’t staying on top of your annual physical, please know that you might be feeling fine but could actually be very ill with something that, if caught early enough, was treatable. It is not uncommon for people to end up in the ER with full-blown kidney failure and have NO IDEA they were sick until they were gravely ill.
Therefore, at my doctor’s strong recommendation, on December 23, I am having a kidney biopsy so that we can know with 100% certainty what’s going on.
Now, I’m not going to bore you with the millions of tests I’ve already had, including dozens of blood and urine tests, two ultrasounds, and two cystoscopies with a urologist.
The bottom line is that it has shown on ultrasound that my kidneys have gotten significantly smaller and no longer filter my blood as they are supposed to.
So, what is causing my chronic stage 3b kidney disease?
There is a strong possibility that I have Lupus Nephritis, an autoimmune disease that attacks the kidneys. Aside from the blood tests, the most compelling piece of evidence is an anti-nuclear antibody test. (ANA)
For the last 25 years, I have known that they are always positive, and not only positive but frequently at the highest possible concentration of auto-antibodies. This test, in and of itself, is not conclusive evidence, as a small percentage of the population has these auto-antibodies, and they are perfectly healthy.
However, my father and uncle (my mother’s brother) each had severe autoimmune diseases, and they both died younger than I am now. There’s a genetic component.
I know that some of you are shaking your heads in a knowing way. Maybe this is you or a relative or friend?
If it is Lupus Nephritis, some treatments can help stop the progression of the disease.
What if it’s not Lupus?
Well, my eGFR (filtration rate) is at 35 right now. (It’s supposed to be 59 or higher). It was 42 a year ago and 50 when it was first tested in April 2021. If it dips below 15, I will have to go on dialysis and then wait for a kidney for a transplant. My darling son Cale has offered me one of his, but I can’t even go there for half a second without crying my eyes out.
What else can you do in the meantime, Laurel?
Great question!
Here’s what I’m doing.
I’m still going on my long walks. Having to run over to Mass General two or three times a week has been very helpful with that. haha And yes, I was undergoing a 24-hour urine test in the midst of the cyst removal last week. Hey, I was able to drop off my jug o’ pee on the way to the procedure.
- And I will continue to eat a healthy diet, including adequate hydration.
- Try not to get stressed out!
- Monitor my blood pressure which is all over the lot, but usually normal.
I will just go on living my life to the fullest I can, which means going out and having fun on days that I’m feeling well.
But, Laurel… You look so healthy!
Yes, thank God! I am very fortunate.
I felt terrific on Halloween in my costume. Maybe I should wear it more often. lol
Ahhhh, but seriously, I see more heads shaking. That’s because there are a lot of “hidden” diseases out there, and a lot of us have them.
I already have another one, dysautonomia (POTS). And yes, it could be related as it, too, is autoimmune, and it has wreaked havoc with my blood pressure. Incidentally, I’m doing very well with it and haven’t had a debilitating episode since the horrible one when I was at Crown Point Cabinetry.
Okay, a few things we can all learn from this.
- Go get your damned annual checkups with full blood workup and urinalysis. Yes, every year if you’re over 50.
- Please feel free to share your own experiences.
- Let’s not discuss any diets or unsubstantiated remedies you heard about somewhere.
I will continue to not drink alcohol. ;] It’s true, I don’t drink. Okay, if Cale is over, I’ll have a sip of his beer, but otherwise, nothing.
I will also continue to get a good amount of exercise* and run up and down my staircase. I feel so much better when I’m active, even if I don’t feel like moving. Yesterday, I did 23 flights! It’s THE best exercise!
* Please note that I have days where I’m pretty useless, and I don’t try to fight it.
In addition, I’m still working on my place and looky, looky what arrived this afternoon! So fast!
It’s quite soft and looks much more beautiful in person. And it does not stink. In fact, it smells quite sweet, almost a little spicy. I love it! Above is the darker side. The line is because the rug has been folded but as it’s walked on, that will ease out.
Above is the dark side at night.
This is the lighter side at night. This will be the view from the kitchen.
Laurel, you put that big heavy rug down on the floor by yourself?
Uh-huh. The hardest part was getting it out of the box. It’s not laid over its pad just yet.
In other news, the eight remaining light fixtures will be installed this coming Wednesday, the 20th. Hooray!
In conclusion. I know my health news isn’t uplifting, but it could be much worse.
Right now, I feel terrific. I’m still able to work and enjoy my life. Still, I felt it important to let you all know what’s going on. I didn’t want to say on Sunday, December 22nd, “Hey Guys, have a very Merry Christmas, and by the way, I’m having a kidney biopsy tomorrow.” I feel confident that I will have some answers by the end of the year.
In addition, if sharing my story encourages even one person to go to the doctor only to find out that they, too, were sick, then it will be worthwhile.
Okay, I also know that some of you or a loved one knowingly have chronic kidney disease. Please feel free to share your stories, too!
Much Love,
***Please check out the recently updated HOT SALES!
There is now an Amazon link on my home page and below. Thank you for the suggestion!
Please note that I have decided not to create a membership site. However, this website is very expensive to run. To provide this content, I rely on you, the kind readers of my blog, to use my affiliate links whenever possible for items you need and want. There is no extra charge to you. The vendor you’re purchasing from pays me a small commission.
To facilitate this, some readers have asked me to put
A link to Amazon.com is on my home page.
Please click the link before items go into your shopping cart. Some people save their purchases in their “save for later folder.” Then, if you remember, please come back and click my Amazon link, and then you’re free to place your orders. While most vendor links have a cookie that lasts a while, Amazon’s cookies only last up to 24 hours.
Thank you so much!
I very much appreciate your help and support!
Related Posts
Come See My Bronxville, NY Apartment. It’s for Sale!- Window Treatment Design for a Big Window in a Small Room! Parts 1 & 2
- The Staircase Railing Installation Failure. Another Renovation Setback!
- And The 2016 Color Of The Year Is…
- Can A Pinky Beige Bathroom Get A Low Budget Update?
- 20 Interior Designers I Would Hire {part I}
- Is It Wise To Attempt A Home Remodel Without a Designer?
122 Responses
Dear Laurel: I am so sorry to be reading this late and just learning the news about your kidney issue. My email inbox has just piled up and I was resolved to go through it today – 1,561 emails!! You are so very right about regular checkups and diagnostic tests as we get older. I have a friend whose husband failed to get his recommended “every 5 years” colonoscopy after being diagnosed with a few polyps at age 48 and now he has stage 3 colon cancer. And on the brighter side, a friend whose breast cancer was diagnosed early because she did have her regular annual mammos. I hope you don’t mind, but I will be praying for you – that the doctors are able to identify your condition and find a successful treatment plan.
Hello Laurel! I’m very sorry for your health issues. My mom had kidney failure, and received a cadaver transplant. It was a fantastic success. Should you ever need a transplant, get on the donor list as soon as possible. If things are still the same way they were in 2003, then there are many, many lists for different regional areas. Some lists are greatly shorter than others, meaning sooner transplants. Do your research. My mom would have languished on her local list, but did not by selecting another within her home state. You can also opt to get on multiple lists in other states. It’s good to have options other than Cale, especially if there is a genetic component to your issues. Hopes and prayers.
I’m a bit late to see this post, but soooo sorry to learn of your health issues. It was so brave of you to share this news, and know that you have a whole community of avid fans who are pulling for you, and who will be thinking of you on December 23. And you are SO RIGHT about keeping up with regular check-ups.
How fortunate you have access to top-notch medicine; I have friends who’ve had to gravitate to places like Boston and New York for serious health issues. And you’re undoubtedly the kind of patient a doctor loves…smart, resourceful and willing to step up and do all the right things.
That darling son of yours…I would cry too! Take good care and have a wonderful Thanksgiving!
Laurel,
I’m wishing you get the answers you need. 🙏 Thank-you for sharing.
Sending you many good thoughts for your health and healing and wishing you
the best Thanksgiving! JM
Laurel, I’m so sorry to hear you’re going through this. Prayers for you and your health.
You are mighty.
I’m so sorry you’re going through this, but it sounds like you’re approaching it with bravery and aplomb. I hope your absolutely gorgeous surroundings give you deep comfort and satisfaction. And I’m so glad your boys are there for you. Sending you big (((hugs))).
Been reading lots of years and been so amazed and encouraged by you. Thank you for sharing your real world. You have people all over who care about you! Glad to hear you are at least feeling well after all the tests and the craziness of a very long and tedious renovation. Your fun-loving glamour girl photo shows that you are thriving! Grace under fire! CANNOT believe you picked up that enormous rug. Those things are already heavy and then they pitch themselves in all directions as you try to carry them. Always admire your determination!
Sending you healing thoughts for a quick answer and recovery from your health situation. Thank you for sharing what could be an important message for many people. Be well and enjoy that beautiful construction zone/home.
You are a very generous person in sharing your considerable design knowledge and your health struggles. I always look forward to your updates, and it sounds like you are in good hands. I’m aware of some of your health problems as I have been diagnosed with Cirrhosis of the liver and NASH. I’ve never smoked , and do not drink or take recreational drugs, and seem the picture of health, so go figure. Much Loveland positive thoughts to you and to your wonderful son.
I’m sending love and encouragement as well as gratitude for sharing this with your readers. I’ve had an autoimmune disease for my entire adult life and your attitude and self-care are inspiring. Wishing you the best of luck.
Another lurker never commented- sending you love and best wishes! I really enjoy your sense of humor and your extra special style!
Dear Laurel, Blogger Extraordinaire, Design Genius and All-Round Good Person:
Your blog has been so helpful to me during difficult times and your generous spirit, expertise, humour and kindness continues to mean much to me. I am sorry to hear about your health issues. Getting older sure isn’t for sissies.
As you may be aware, there is a positive correlation between high blood pressure and kidney function. My mom had a host of health problems, physical and mental. The frequent flare-ups from her anxiety syndrome bore on her blood pressure. The last 20 years of her life her GFR was in the low 40’s to very low 20’s. However, with modifications to her diet, drugs for her anxiety and her high blood pressure, her GFR actually stabilized in the mid-20’s and she lived to be 94 yrs. And it was a fall that got her (not kidneys or stroke). You seem to be doing all the right things to address your issue, your healthcare team looks to be on top of it, and you have people close to you that care about you. I can only feel that these factors plus your determination and positivity are going to stand you in good stead in the near future and beyond.
Mass General (MGH) – known as Man’s Greatest Hospital !! Truth !
You are in good hands. I was there some 30 years ago for surgery- very successful too.
I am not making light of your diagnosis, that would be immature but I know you will be OK.
Don’t push yourself too much – seems like you have so much passion and energy always.
Take good care – we’ll all hear from you next year . 😘
Praying for your complete healing in Jesus Nme💕
Sorry to hear about your health issue. I’ll keep you in my prayers. I’m starting to really believe prayers make a difference. My husband was given two weeks to live and we went back to his home country because he wanted to be there at the end. Now two months have passed, he stopped all treatment and he seems to have gone into remission. All his friends pray for him. I wish you a good outcome.
Good morning Laurel
I wanted to tell you that I’ve enjoyed your blog for quite awhile now. I really appreciate all your knowledge and your sense of humor. Your home looks amazing!I pray🙏 that your health care team will help you get better and slow the progression Thank You so much for informing us. It may help someone who is struggling and don’t know why. Please take good care of yourself 💞🙏💞🙏💞
Dear Laurel,
The “new” rug is lovely, but it is overshadowed by news of your health challenges.
Offering encouragement and support – you have already outlived your father and your uncle, and there have been a lot of advances in modern medicine,
Your experience shows us all the importance of having annual physicals, including lab work. This becomes increasingly important as we age. I would add that it is also important to have good doctors. A good GP will automatically order the annual lab work. In addition, he/she should make sure you are up to date on age-appropriate vaccines, like the shingles and pneumonia vaccines. Doctors that are taking new patients and have good reviews can be found online.
Cale is such a great son, and it is wonderful that he is willing to donate a kidney should you need one. What is the likelihood that your condition is hereditary, and that Cale could also develop this medical condition in the future?
Like another fan said, I am a yearslong reader but haven’t posted. But I keep coming back to your posts because they are so instructive and you are so talented. ( and super kind as well which I always appreciate). Just wanted to send best wishes as you travel this challenging journey. Like many others, I know relatives and friends who have had transplants or donated a kidney. In all cases, both recipient and donor are doing well. Life changing for both….the person with kidney failure gets a new lease on life. The donor….well who wouldn’t want to give someone the gift of life? Especially their momma? You are in my prayers.
Dear Laurel! Sending you love, prayers, best wishes! You are lucky, you are in best hands and only at a hands reach! My husband and I walked on foot to his surgery at 5am one morning, we still laugh about it, just imagine to walk to your surgery! (The surgery didn’t really help his problem). I feel your health will improve now that the huge upheaval that the renovation caused is over and you’ll just be on your own, in peace, in a beautiful home, rest and take good care of yourself.
Dear Laurel, thank you for being vulnerable and sharing your health challenges with us, your virtual friends. You have touched all of our lives in many ways, and we want to support you and be there for you. I’m grateful for the PSA; I get regular physicals and blood work, but not urinalysis, so I will add that next time. I’ll add not to skip your mammograms and colonoscopies! My breast cancer was caught early, and I’ve been cancer free for over a decade. AND, your rug is gorgeous, as is everything you touch! Sending love and prayers to you!
Like many here I think I’ve been following you since your social media birth. Tons of bloggers have great taste but few are as honest about whats and whys of good design , or as generous with the personal process of it all. You really have created something from nothing. You’ve succeeded where thousands upon thousands fail. Now you’re working on getting that golden ratio into your health design. You’ve got a medical team for the heavy lifting and a media family for the up lifting. You’re so smart to share the burden. The comments here are lovely. Karma is a switch… and you’ve turned it on.
Laurel, I am so very sorry this serious health issue has landed on your plate but grateful you have top-notch trusted health care readily available! You will be very much in my thoughts as you navigate this difficult challenge. Out of my life experience, I have some advice. As best you can, find every way you can to compartmentalize the disease. Compartmentalizing gets a bad rap but when it allows you to live your life instead of living a disease, it is a good thing. My husband had Type 1 diabetes for 20 years and was then diagnosed with a brain tumor. In the 3 years of juggling diabetes and a brain tumor with work and being a parent, my husband taught me about living. As we moved through his illness, we ceased living in “waiting rooms”; that is, we stopped putting life on hold while waiting on labs, doctors, surgeries. In terminal phase, we left the country for 2 weeks and relished the anonymity–people saw him instead of the disease. We routinely traveled to Duke for his treatment and made a point of making the most of those trips; MRIs became “dinner & movie”–An MRI and then a nice dinner! None of this stopped the hard & awful but did give us a reservoir of strength, a treasure of memories and pockets of peace. All my love to you.
Dear Laurel, we all go through rough patches in life and we remain strong. You sound strong and this is what will get you through this situation. I thought of you as I read an article about baking soda; quote: in people with reduced kidney function, it can even delay progression of the disease. It improves kidney function. Baking soda helps balance the acids in your blood, which takes some of the pressure off the kidneys. Unquote!!!
It wouldn’t hurt to try it, probably a teaspoon in water every morning. I thought of you and wish you well and I will pray for you!!!!
Laurel,
I have read your blog for many years, and as many have said, you are a bright light in this world! You are an inspiration. This post was brave and kind of you; I am sure it will help more than one person out there. Take care!
Dear Laurel, you are strong, addressing the issue is the most important. Be happy enjoying friends and family, the most healing remedy. You have wonderful people beside!
Laurel, You are always here for us ~ We are here for You! When you need down time, no apologies needed! Bless you. Your talents and strength are mind-blowing. Rest and relax, Sweet Lady. Enjoy your beautiful home. Sending grace and healing prayers.
You are so very brave. Sending love and light, my friend. 💙💙💙💙💙
Your blog has been a bright spot for me for the past decade.
I’m so sorry to hear about your health challenges. Thank you for the PSA about getting annual blood work and urinalysis done.
Please, please take care of yourself. Forgive me if I also post a PSA. As Christiane and Ellen Shook already mentioned, both CKD and POTS and be triggered or existing disease can be made worse by covid. I’m attaching a couple of articles so you won’t think it is just anecdote or something rare. Each subsequent covid infection raises the risk.
So many people have given up. But covid is not invertible and we are not helpless (though it would be far easier if our leaders had not pretended covid was over). Vaccination alone is not enough since vaccinated people can get covid and can get organ damage even if the acute phase is mild. I live with a condition that puts me at high risk of bad outcomes, so I’ve had to pay attention. We can avoid getting reinfected: wear an N95 in indoor public places or crowded outdoor places. There are DIY fit tests you can do. If workers are in your home not properly masked, you wear an N95. When they leave continue running HEPA filters and exhaust fans until you are sure there have been at least three full air exchanges before removing your mask. Prearrange that medical staff interacting with you war N95’s, especially if you might need to remove your mask for any reason, such as anesthesia. Get it put in your chart, speak to the charge nurse ahead of time. Have people who visit you, including family, test with a molecular test like Metrix before removing your mask too. I hope this helps keep you and anyone else reading this safe and healthy.
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41591-022-02051-3/figures/1
https://www.webmd.com/covid/covid-19-pots (many, many more papers and articles available)
Thank you for sharing that information with us. That is a courageous and generous act. You have convinced me to stop procrastinating and take annual physicals seriously. I am impressed by your strength and am wishing all the best for you.
Also, your new rug is gorgeous. Your taste is exquisite.
Just wanted to share I’m a kidney donor, too. I donated “altruistically” and my dad ended up needing my voucher and was able to get a kidney before having to resort to dialysis. I feel such pride that I saved two lives. If Cole is interested, I’d respect it. Donors are screened extensively, have tons of legal protections, and most report positive emotional benefits. I’m in my thirties and have a young son, and 2-3 weeks of recovery was basically a vacation, ha! And, if your (or my dad’s) nephritis is genetic, nothing would save our kidneys anyway.
I also got a diagnosis of stage 3 kidney disease, but mine was from taking NSAIDs for years and years. Despite my despair, it cleared up over several years of eschewing NSAIDs like the plague! I will never touch another one, and believe strongly that they should only be prescription. They are dangerous to kidneys. My hope that with the renewed studies on Lupus that they find a cure soon. I know that you are in the best hands possible with the Mass General docs, and with sweet Cale, offering his kidney. You raised an amazing man!
Laurel, not sure what I can add that hasn’t already been said very eloquently in all of the posts above. You are so special, and like a dear friend, to so many people as you can tell by all of the comments. I can’t even read all of these posts without tearing up. May God bless you!
Laurel, I am so sorry to hear about your chronic kidney disease. Thank you for sharing. I too have chronic kidney disease. The doctors have no idea what caused it. I had my first transplant at the age of 20. My mother was the donor. I had to be on dialysis several months before the transplant. I had my second transplant in 2017. My sister in law was the donor. Again, I was on dialysis for a while before the transplant. I am truly blessed! I have been able to live a very normal life. I have been married for 37 years and given birth to 2 beautiful children.
I know you are getting the best care. You’ve got this! You are in my prayers.
Laurel,
I am a so-called glass half-full person and obviously you are as well. Just look at all the positivity shining back at you!!
As you can read from so many replies we are here for you!
There are a lot of comments about how fortunate you are to have Cale, which of course is true. At the same time he is so lucky you are his mom. Beyond your exquisite taste there is a plethora of lessons in resilience, grace and positively to be learned from you. Thank you for always inspiring us.
Hoping and praying for encouraging results from the upcoming biopsy, and an effective treatment plan to preserve your kidney function. I am glad that the major disruptive stages of the remodeling process are over, and you can have more peace and quiet in your home.
The living room rug is a nice mellow look that looks great with the newly finished floor. Everything is progressing so well.
Laurel, prayers and hugs .
I am in the SAME boat! My numbers are almost the same as yours. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. Sending you hugs. Linda
Life is definitely full of both blessings and challenges. I know I speak for all of us here – Laurel, you are such a bright light! Adding you to my prayers and sending you a big hug xoxo
Dear Laurel, I hope you feel a sense of relief having shared your health concerns. We are all in your corner and Mass General is excellent with the best doctors. They are learning new things and are very current for the best outcomes. I found your wonderful blog in 2015 when I was going through stage 3 breast cancer. Your blog became my door to a world away from what came with that diagnosis. I read so many of your articles and poured over your guides gaining an appreciation for so many things having to do with design. Your blog and sense of humor kept me engaged.
You are a true gift. xoxo
For years, I have talked to my husband about you, saying you are like a sister to me. We have the same coloring, same tastes, same interests. When I read about your experience giving birth and apologizing to your medical team, I thought that is me. And now we have a similar kidney issue, asymptomatic with a declining eGFR, positive ANA and shrinking kidneys. Memories of peeing in the plastic jug at work, waiting anxiously for lab results. My kidneys started failing in 2013; my nephrologist thinks due to my lifelong migraine treatment with NAISDs. Switching to Botox and avoiding Aleve helped raise my filtration rate from the 30s up to the upper 50s. In January, however, it dropped and has remained in the lower 40s. (The triggering event was Long COVID and its ensuing high blood pressure.) My advice is to consider your neurologist part of your village and give yourself grace. I wish you healing and a beautifully finished home.
Dear Laurel,
I have known something was going on with your health for quite a while but never guessed this sort of problem. The signals that you were struggling were clear to someone like me who also struggles.
I have no experience with kidney disease although I do have a transplanted ankle and other serious chronic conditions, ME/CFS largely.
Your perseverance during this renovation and all around attitude have gotten you far in this life. I have had to persevere against lousy odds.
My Christmas wish for you is that you are able to finish this renovation soon and enjoy your stunning home which will be healing in and of itself as beauty is healing. But do not push yourself in any way.
It is true that when I look at certain corners of my home, which is still a mess due to unforeseen circumstances, I think that “Laurel inspired that” and wish for you to see those corners. Your work has spread beauty everywhere and that is a special blessing you send out into the world.
May those blessings return to you in the form of healing.
Laurel, I’m really sorry to hear your news and wanted to share my uncle’s experience with what sounds like the same thing and his eventual kidney transplant. My uncle had almost two years of dialysis followed by his kidney transplant in ’95. He passed away last August from an injury accident but his kidney was still going strong 28 years later. That’s considered an amazing long time for a kidney but many of his friends were having the same luck. He needed to take very minimal rejection drugs and led a healthy lifestyle and had no problems at all. Besides his healthy lifestyle we can’t be sure what the secret was but guessing it was the luck of a great match. Keeping my fingers crossed and wishing you the absolute best.
Laurel,
This was a great reminder to stay on top of annual physical exams. I am so sorry to hear that you have these health issues. I wish you healing and peace as you continue on this journey. And not that you ned anybody’s permission to live your life, but the renovations you have embarked make total sense..live and enjoy life while you are able.
Hoping for all good outcomes for you, and really do appreciate your PSA on annual exams. Will put that on my to-do list, as you make some very valid points about diseases that sneak up.
Dear Laurel, I’m so sorry to hear about your health challenges. You’re certainly in good hands at Mass General. I’m going to pray for a wonderful outcome for you and your continued health. 🙏
What strength and fortitude you have, Laurel.
Wishing you the best of outcomes on your medical journey. So glad you’re close to excellent health resources.
You’ve inspired your devoted readers with your insights, humor and perseverance.
Enjoy your beautiful home in peace and good health…
Thanks for all you do.
All the best for a good outcome. I will keep you in my thoughts. You have helped me today more than you know, because I am beginning to exhibit some issues with my own kidney function. My doctor made me aware of it last year and she just told me it is a bit worse but I just had a nasty case of Covid I picked up in France last month. That probably did not help since I have not bounced back the way my husband has. So your having published this today has gotten my attention, and I thank you profusely for sharing.
Prayers for you, Laurel. After years of subscribing to your blog, you are like the friend who checks in a couple times a week, giving wisdom & sharing beautiful spaces with your readers. Thank you for giving & giving! May you find solutions to your health issues, enjoy a long & fabulous in your exquisite home, & be encouraged with the responses to your health post.
Dear Laurel, First you look gorgeous in the photos.
I too am right along beside you – multiple autoimmune diseases and have been on biologics for years. Dysautomia ( which I had never heard of ), The opposite of POTS as I collapse going from lying down to standing, GFR hangs around 25, etc, etc. Creatanin (sp) levels seem important. I live in Nashville but have been going to the Mayo Clinic in Florida. Totally impressed and helpful. The nurse yesterday mentioned Dialasis (?) and I was so disturbed I dont remember the entire conversation. My kidney issues were caused by years of uncontrolled ( we tried) blood pressure and dehydration from multiple intestines removed. I finally decided it is what it is and try not to let it run my life. I am sure it is harder for you as it is more recent, AND….I too am remodeling! HA
Best to you Laurel and if can ever help you, as another “Victim” I am happy to. JoAnnd.
I want to thank you for sharing your design journey and, now, your health setback. I have great admiration for your creation and marvel that you have managed this project while having a health issue. I have learned so much from reading your blog and now that I have embarked on my own renovation, I am grateful to you since I have a better idea how to manage this challenge.
Sending blessings for your perfect health. I see you as healthy and strong and, as the stress that you have been through these last few years recedes, you find your health improves, your kidneys resume their normal function, and you are healthy and happy in all ways. Thank you, Laurel!
I’m so sorry to hear that you have this mess of a disease and that you have to spend the holidays with a biopsy (and awaiting results when drs are on vacation.) At least you are in good hands at MGH…the best!
I know you were a dancer and just thinking that, in place of some stair exercises, you might do some online ballet classes. Kathryn Morgan (former NYC ballet diva) has a great beginner barre ballet UTube. It will help you de-stress and keep your core strong.
I’ve been following your blog for years. You provide such an amazing education about using colors and undertones. One of the rooms you posted gave me the courage to redo my 1848 parlor (with 70 yr old severely faded hydrangea wallpaper) in a beautiful Ben Moore blue “Fiji” with BM “Dove White” trim, and BM “Willow” on the old painted floor. Truly transformative!
Thank you for all you do for us!
Sending healing hugs.
Laurel, I was saddened to read about your health challenges. It can’t have been easy managing this through a prolonged and sometimes troublesome renovation. Thank you for the decision to share this with your readers. I’m glad you’re getting good care. I have two friends that donated kidneys to their family members. Both were successful. They have lead healthy lives, and have been grateful to have their loved ones with them. At least you know that Cale is willing should that route becomes necessary. Has he been tested to ensure that he is a match?
In BC, we have a desperate shortage of doctors. I have not had a GP for ten years and have had to rely on walk-in clinics or online video conference for immediate medical concerns. But these services do not offer full physicals. In fact, I haven’t had a full physical for over 10 years and I’m now 60. At least breast and colon cancer screening are done regularly through mobile clinics. Your post has inspired me to book a video consult and push for a blood work up. Our system is brilliant for acute care, but the preventative side is falling apart.
Take good care and get some much deserved rest over the winter. ❤️
Thank you for sharing this and emphasizing to get regular checkups. I lost a dear friend last year, mostly due to not going to the doctor on any regular basis, and having white-coat syndrome. I hope and pray the right answers for you will be easily found. I will be praying for your health and that you will have many happy days in your lovely “new” home! P.S. I also want to thank you for not going political in your blog. It is why I continue to receive your emails and follow you on social media.
Sending prayers your way and wishing you the very best. ❤️
Oh Laurel! The medical part of your journey sucks. Sounds like you and your expert team are moving through with direction. You are a determined woman, as demonstrated by the fastidious work on your gorgeous home. This ‘spirit’ applies to your health.
I appreciated Celestial’s encouragement to you, to let your community here know what we can do. Like you, I have a ‘community’/following. I shy from sharing deeply personal info. as you have here. I understand reluctance to do so. However, there have been hallmark times when I have asked for thought/prayer concerning something specific, and once unidentified. In remarks offered to me, all remained respectful, and positive. I truly believe people generally want to help, and in allowing it, in turn, we help them.
I think of you numerous times each week, in addition to looking forward to blog posts. Now, in addition to gratitude, I’ll add in healing thoughts.
Thoughts of you often are triggered when viewing changes I’ve made in my home, or when thinking of pending plans with your influence stamped on them. Having just wrapped up an unexpected kitchen-gut from soil-on-up, via your posturing shared in the blog, I stood my ground demanding excellence and respect, for creativity outside cookie-cutter work. Most of us never know the impact we make on the world; know that your lovely impact is widespread and huge!
Dear Laurel,
The remodel and all the voc’s and dust and paint particles certainly haven’t helped you through this process. You have had a right to be vigilant about the environment around you. My friend who is suffering from Asthma and weight issues also was recently diagnosed with POTS. It’s very debilitating, yet like you is trying to deal with her own remodel and clean up of a house they just purchased. I feel for both of you and offer my hopes for managing your condition successfully. Thank you for sharing, you are not alone.
So sorry to read this blog post, Laurel. I’ve been wondering about your health for a while. My dad lives with one kidney and stage 3 kidney disease. He seems to be stable, now that his very low sodium level is back to normal. He takes daily salt tablets–funny how something so seemingly simple can also be life-threatening. Though out his illness, I’ve learned that the body is very complicated!! My thoughts and prayers are with you!
Thank you for sharing Laurel. It gave me hope when I read many people’s stories, regarding my own sister. She just turned 70 and has inherited the gene from my mother for polycystic kidneys. She leads a healthy lifestyle and was recently told by her doctor that she’s two years away from Potential dialysis or being put on a kidney transplant list. Rather shocking, since she appears asymptomatic at this point.
My mother lived with the kidney disease until age 82, which is admirable as she had a very healthy lifestyle. Strong heart and lungs. She chose not to go on dialysis, which is a very personal choice.
Love your blog Laurel, and will always be rooting for you! You’ll have a prayer chain around the world, no matter which way your journey travels.
For almost thirty years I’ve been actively battling several autoimmune diseases – Rheumatoid Arthritis, Type 1 Diabetes, and Graves Disease. They have not been silent, but loud and very vocal, and have had complications attached to them. These don’t seem to be hereditary, but I’m betting that they’re environmentally related. Nobody knows.
Blessings to you. I have enjoyed your talent and humor for many years now, and I’ll be praying for your recovery.
Dearest Laurel, Thinking of you, and Cale, and will be keeping you both in my prayers. Your positive attitude is powerful!
You are a strong woman with an amazing positivity about you. Remember that there are a lot of people that care about you and are keeping you in their thoughts. God bless you, Laurel.
Thanks for sharing, and your PSA about getting annual exams. I am thinking of you.
Thank you for your post. I wish you ongoing health improvements!! Your post is making me take my GFA number more seriously and I will follow up now. I can’t thank you enough for sharing.
Kind Regards,
Melinda
Dear Laurel, I’m sorry to hear about your health issues. It is great that you are in Boston because of all the great doctors! I hope your get answers after your biopsy (I sometime think not knowing is so much harder ) I’m sending you good wishes and hope you continue feeling well and are able to enjoy your beautiful home!!
Thank you for sharing Laurel. I appreciate you telling people to get their regular check-ups. That is so important! I am glad you are receiving good medical care.
I really look forward to reading your posts, and your remodel is gorgeous! Thank you!
Wishing you the best.
Jeannine
Your strength is remarkable and I am always in awe of the way you deal with all aspects of life. Thank you for sharing your health experiences and the care you are receiving sounds exceptional. Hoping you have more days of feeling good than not as this gets sorted out. The beautiful home you’ve created is an uplifting place and being surrounded by a lovely environment is therapeutic.
laura
i am a yearslong reader and not a commentator but after hearing of your health journey i wanted to comment. please take care of yourself and try to avoid stress—-i had a blood disease and ended up with radiation to my spine and a bone marrow transplant. i am from Boston and there are fabulous docs here–you are in the right place.
love your place hope you can take it easy for a while.
all the best,
lynn
Best wishes to you during this troubling time, and hoping you have the best care available.
Your reno is beyond beautiful. Stay strong, blessings to you.
POTS alone should put you in line for sainthood but kidney disease AND a year-long house remodel? I had to stop reading your posts for a bit because I was so stressed out with YOUR remodel; I cannot imagine how YOU were able to handle it.
I think you were put on this earth to inspire and educate others and you do it so well. We all thank you for the influence you have had on our lives. If there is anything we can do as a group, or as individuals, please just ask.
Dear Laurel, I’m a long time reader but not a commenter. However, since you said it was okay to share experiences, here I am. My beloved husband developed an auto immune disorder in his late 30’s, IGA Nephropathy. He was only 38 when his kidneys failed. I donated my kidney to him before he had to start dialysis. It lasted 7 years until the disorder destroyed that one, too. My daughter from my first marriage donated one of hers to him and it’s still going strong. My purpose in sharing is to let you know, once my daughter and I healed from our surgeries, our lives returned to normal and we both say we would never know we only have one kidney. We’re both healthy and active and it brings us so much joy to see my husband living an active life as well. He is only in his early 50’s so he has a lot of life yet to live. I sincerely hope you don’t reach the point of needing a kidney, but if you do just know that Cale will get to experience such joy to know you are restored to an active life because of his gift.
Your attitude is the way to be Laurel! Take care.
Laurel, It’s courageous of you to share this with all of us. I can only imagine how difficult this is to go through. My thoughts are with you and Cale.
Laurel, I will be thinking of you and hoping for the best possible outcome. Xo
Dear Laurel,
Your post hit home. My sister was doing well and then became very ill. Her kidneys were failing. She was hospitalized and began dialysis. After many tests and weeks in the hospital, a biopsy was done which provided the information for diagnosis. She had a rare autoimmune disease called Goodpasture’s disease. It is treated with chemotherapy. She was recovering well and I was jubilant. However, just when she was to finally be discharged, she was found to have sepsis. Unfortunately my beloved sister died. Please ask about Goodpasture’s disease. It usually is not fatal but it is rare. I hope your kidney issue is diagnosed and you do well. Reading your posts is like reading a letter from a friend! Please keep us up to date. We readers really care about you!
My thoughts and prayers are with you! -Andrea
Hi Laurel,
I’ll be thinking of you and sending positive thoughts.
Michelle
Should have been pops into my head, must remember to reread, lol
Keep on TRUCKING, Laurel, it’s all we can do.When things get me down and I have a moment of why me, then why not me popped into my head and one goes on.Sometimes I’m still pissed though,LOL.
Love the rug and can’t wait to see it all put together!
Thank you for sharing, Laurel, my heart goes out to you! I’ve been living with autoimmune disease myself, along with my mother and brother, he with chronic kidney disease. My inspiration – the brave people who embrace life and don’t let their disease define them, very hard at times, often for long stretches. Especially amazing – parents who guide their children through with such grace and help them build meaningful, enriching lives. You inspire and bring light, insight and humor to so many, may you continue to be well and find that joy and beauty!
Laurel, your strength & resilience is amazing and the rug looks great. The tonal look with the floor is so pretty. Hugs & Best wishes–
Oh no Laurel! I’m sorry to hear you are going through all of this. It must have been a rough few weeks and TWO cystoscopies to boot! I had one last year and I was so incredibly uncomfortable afterwards 😫.
Sending you lots of well wishes. I’m certain you are in great hands and will find a comfortable sustainable treatment or solution.
Wishing you recovered good health.I read your brilliant beautifully written posts all the time and have never commented, but this one compelled me to do so.Thank you for sharing. May your kidney function stabilize.
Laurel,
Thank you for sharing your health issues. My father has been battling CKD for several years. He’s tried his best to eat kidney friendly diet and manage his blood pressure. He and my mother just had their first meeting with a dialysis educator to learn about options. I have an annual physical in February. I will ask to be tested thoroughly as you advised.
Debbie
Laurel,
Many thanks for sharing your story. My best friend was recently diagnosed with Lupus at 72 and she is also concerned it could lead to complications with her kidneys. Her numbers are in the range that after taking Celebrex(low dose) for side effects which she thought were orthopedic in nature(she is married to an orthopedist)…..she will be progressing to a biologic soon. She has always received annual physicals with an Internist and her certain blood values were beginning to look skewed a few years ago…..she was finally at “peace” when she knew the source of her health issues …….and feels the same as you on the importance of annual physicals and bloodwork/urine tests.
Your story is inspirational and educational for us all…………..please update and sending hugs for a successful and effective pathway going forward……
can’t think of a better place to be than Boston if you need medical care. I say this to all your subscribers—THINK OF A WAY TO SIMPLIFY AND DOWNSIZE YOUR CHRISTMAS THIS YEAR so you can rest and relax and enjoy the holiday season. This will be my first Christmas with my mother in assisted living so my cat and myself are alone here in the condo. A good friend has invited me to her house for Christmas Eve. That is what friends are for. Good luck, Laurel!!
Laurel, the rug looks great. cannot wait to see it with the sofa you are planning. And, I was sorry to read about your health condition. I did pick up something from your posts but was not sure. We all have someone we love with a developing health problem. I wish you well and that you continue to take careful care of yourself. And look forward to continuing posts on your beautiful renovation.
Laurel, my heart sunk right through the floor reading that about your kidney troubles. I wish you the very best. Always. May your health care team figure out how to help you and stop the progression.
Your post definitely makes me realize how important it is to stay on the ball with health care. I tend yo let it slide.
The new rug is beautiful!
Sending well wishes, prayer, and tons of good mojo your way for the best possible outcome as you move forward.💞
Dear Laurel, I donated a kidney to my husband eleven years ago and I’ve never regretted it. The care I received at the transplant center was excellent. His life was transformed and I was and am grateful for a sense of purpose in his healing. I was fifty-five at the time. My kidney function is perfect, my health unaffected. I hesitate to say it, but if Cale wants to do this, dealing with the after-effects of surgery might be much easier than dealing with watching his mother’s health decline until… okay, this is a lot to deal with. Best wishes.
Good morning Laurel,
The fact that you’ve been dealing with this health issue & the stresses of your long renovations just tell me how strong you are. I’m sure that quality is working in your favor as you’re living with this condition. I will be asking for a urinalysis on my next checkup. I’m 70 & have never had one.
I love your new rug. Would you describe it as ochre colored? Or golden beige?
Whatever, it’s going to be beautiful with your sofa.
You mentioned your additional light fixtures are being installed this week. That’s exciting! Also, just so you know, I ordered some incandescent lightbulbs recently from Amazon & they came the next day. You should stock up. 😉
Oh, dear Laurel, I’m so sorry to hear of your health troubles. I will keep you in my prayers.
If the worst happens, and you need a kidney transplant, I’d like to share with you a story about my cousin. She had kidney failure due to medications she needed for other health issues, and had a transplant at the age of 78. She just celebrated her 80th birthday and is doing so very well. It was a long recovery but she can look forward to many years with her new kidney.
Your positive outlook along with the excellent care you are getting at Mass General will help you in whatever the future brings. May God bless you.
Laurel- I’ve been reading your blog for years and so appreciate your design style and expertise, your wit and intelligence, and your tenacity and spunk. I’m so sorry you are dealing with this health challenge, but know you have the strength for this journey. I spent much of last year dealing with breast cancer and all is well now. I felt the range of emotions from fear to anger to empowerment. I sought all the medical support available including holistic doctors, who worked in conjunction with my oncology team. It seems you have great medical care there, too, and you have such a gift in your loving son (you raised him well). BTW, I have two extended family members with POTS, and know their struggles. You are amazing and strong. You will get through this!
Your blog has been such a source of inspiration and joy to me. I am so grateful for all you have shared, including this personal news. The reminder to stay on top of regular appointments was exactly what I needed to hear. Thank you for all your wonderful work, I will be thinking of you and wishing for a quick and total recovery.
Layering the stress of some of the reno issues you have dealt with on top of these medical issues/concerns is pretty inconceivable. Healing and positive thoughts for you and thank you for the reminder to keep up on those physicals.
P.S. What a wonderful son you have!
Laurel, I wish you well on this journey. Stay strong and positive. Hugs to you.
Laurel- I was so sorry to read this. My thoughts are with you. I started to read your blog when I moved to Greenwich 6 years ago ( disappointed you no longer were FT interior decorator). I grew up not far from your Bronxville apt and have enjoyed every moment of your humor and down to earth advice. A little piece of me thinks you were meant to be in your Boston home ( vs western Mass) for exactly this purpose- to be close to Mass General. Collectively- you have a great group here wishing the best and sending lots of prayers. I am one of them!
Oh Laurel lifting up prayers for you! Kidney disease is so insidious sneaking in without symptoms. So glad you and drs are on top of it. The rug is gorgeous and perfect.
Dear Laurel,
I’m so shocked and saddened to hear what you have been going through lately. I’m sure it’s very difficult waiting for your scheduled biopsy. Thank goodness you have been diligent about your annual physicals.
Thank you for sharing your story as I know it will push others to go to the Dr. I will keep you in my prayers.
Oh Laurel, as always there is such positivity and a touch of humor in sharing your difficult medical diagnoses. Those two emotions, and your healthy life-style, will surely play a key role in improving your outcome. You are one brave lady! Thoughts, prayers, and fingers crossed for the 23rd.
PS -You really scored on the rug!
God bless you, Laurel! Stay strong!! Prayers for the best treatment to end these troubles!
So very sorry to hear of this news… I am confident that your positive attitude will carry you through ….bummer to have to deal with this during the holidays but I still believe in Christmas Miracles. I received my new heart on Christmas Eve 6 years ago and even though I have kidney disease (Stage 3) as well as other medical issues along with it, I am doing exceptionally well. My sister says I have some mafia mentality as I have acknowledged the diagnoses, but fight with all I have along this journey. Stay strong, stay positive and keep the love of your family and friends close. You are a lot tougher than you think!!!
Wishing you strength as you go through the testing and treatment to live your fullest life. We will all be rooting for you.
Praying for your health and positive results.
Hugs. I understand and walk.the walk. It has only been since i was 40 that I started getting root cause answers to my chronic health. One foot in front of the other. Some days two steps back. I listen. My pace and my to do list stay fluid. You have to rest when you need to and other days are super with how much I accomplish. I have Mannose Binding Lectin Defiency (on monthly IVIG for the last 10 years. Non CF Bronchiectasis, Ehlors Danlos, POTS, Hashimotos, Adult Diagnosed type 1 Diabetes, Adrenal Insufficiency and Medullary Sponge Kidney (my kidney disease is one stage below yours) Pericardial Cyst that is pressing on my trachea and is 2 inches long (finally the answer to why it feels like an elephant on my chest all my life while they said I move air well) When needed it will be removed but it is the location that will require open heart surgery (1 in 8 of 1 in 100,000) That is how my health usually goes. I lost over 10% of my body weight early in the year and they still don’t know why. 20+ lbs and had to purge all my clothes. There is always something around the bend. I have bi-lateral Thoracic Outlet Syndrome also but not a doctor here to address it. (2 surgeries possible) Need another higher level tethered cord surgery soon. Not long ago i had 5 surgeries in 3 years. That was a challenge to be so restricted with recoveries. Stay on top of your labs and advocate for yourself. I am strong but I do have days that seem so hard to get past. Then I move forward again. I just built myself a custom closet with the Makita track saw I bought myself for my 55th birthday. Lots of plans for my house and yard. They just might take me longer 🙂 I have ADD and my list is always long and my brain is 1000 miles an hour. You got this!
My thoughts are with you. There are so many quiet illnesses out there. Someone I know is quietly suffering from autoimmune disease, which affects every corner of life, but it is a “ secret” that can’t be publicly revealed for fear that employment status will be further compromised. Thank you for bringing light to silent illnesses. You are a light to others. Stay strong. So wonderful that you are dedicated to your exercise routines!
Dear Laurel, I’m sorry to hear that awful news. I hope your medical team, which sounds completely on it, is able to keep you in tip-top condition and able to enjoy life to the full.
Thank you for sharing Laurel, it is difficult to feel vulnerable , especially when you are so strong and independent! Sending positive and healing vibes and keep us all posted on your journey.
( rug looks great )
Laurel, I’m so sorry for this tough health news. My dad had kidney disease that eventually landed him in dialysis. And you are so right that it is insidious! He had terrible high blood pressure issues that were complicated by his second wife’s insistence that she knew better than his docs. She convinced him to take much less of his high blood pressure meds because of their “side effects” on their sex life. (I can’t even..)
Anyway, he ended up with that dreaded 15% kidney function at 79 because of this. It was very debilitating for him because he had always prided himself on his strength. And this disease sapped his energy as well, so that playing golf and walking was no longer an option.
But, and here’s the big but, he didn’t really follow what his kidney docs advised. He went to dialysis, but still didn’t take his meds properly.
My take away from his experience is that the specialists and their specialist nurses and dieticians have great information but it’s up to us to put it to use. I know you are very thorough in your follow-through, and will do what you need to stay healthy as you can. I wish you the best and send prayers for strength and love. All of us out here in the ethers have your back!!
Thank you for sharing this with us, will be praying for you, sorry this is what your doing just before Xmas eve. It takes a lot of strength to be vulnerable and determined. Many lessons beyond renovations you impart here by being you and I thank you.
May I say, I understand?
Oh Laurel..I wasn’t expecting to read this kind of news this morning. However, I’m sure you will tackle this to the fullest of your ability. Just like you’ve had to tackle every other obstacle that’s been thrown at you during your life. Plus, I’m sure you know, women are far stronger than men when it comes to anything they need to do. (I think that comes from being a mother) . Men have this tendency to feel sorry for themselves. Women fight their problems head on. I’m very confident that you’ve got this girl!
Laurel, it truly saddens me to hear this. But I know you’ll tackle this with your usual perseverance! I have a chronic disease also- chronic and vestibular migraine with aura. I’ve had it my entire life. At times it is absolutely debilitating and because I have stretches of time where I get them for days on end, my energy is sapped and I get very down. I have a great neurologist who specializes in headaches (and head trauma… hopefully I won’t require those particular skills!). I absolutely love your posts and humor and they bring a lot of sunshine into my day. I have learned SO MUCH from you. Keep on keeping on. You are a strong lady! Love and positive thoughts heading in your direction! Take care, Donna
I’m sorry this is your next challenge! I know you will do this with God’s help with all the grace and strength as you have lived your life. Many blessings and sweet sunshine to you 💖
I’m wishing you the best possible outcome. You are so brave, and you bringing so much joy to so many of us through your graft, creativity and ingenuity. Do everything you can to put yourself first.
Dear Laurel, so good and brave of you to share this. I hope that all your readers will take your advice about check-ups. This is the sort of insidious illness which can get you without your knowing it, but it sounds as if you’re doing all the right things.
All the renovation problems can’t have helped. All I can say is “have fun as much as you can” — fun is good for you! With best wishes for now and later…
Oh my gosh, Laurel. Your site and your wonderful missives and misadventures with this renovation have absolutely been the VERY BEST reading on the web!!!! Sending powerful and healthy vibes to you. Your readers treasure everything you share with us, from plumbing fixtures to floor finishes and all of it in between. EXCELSIOR, LAUREL!!!!
Laurel, sending you positive thoughts for your health and well being…
You are a very caring and loving person.
Thank you for sharing this information with us. Positive thoughts for you as you navigate through this journey.
I will stay tuned for your next post.
so sorry to hear of your diagnosis, but grateful that you went to the doctor when you did. Good advice for everyone to always get a good annual check up. I have a granddaughter who has pots she’s only 18 and I pray for her every day. Auto immune disorders runs in my family. Prayers for you and your health.
Oh, Laurel, I am sorry to hear you are going through this. I am so glad you don’t have symptoms and feel well — may that continue on and on! Sending positive energy out to the universe hoping it comes back to you with an easy, manageable diagnosis!
Sorry to hear you’re going through this. Autoimmune diseases can be so tricky to deal with at times. Praying for your improving health. Thank you for sharing.
Sending you my heartfelt prayers for good health.