That kidney is no longer functioning. However, a new in-home dialysis machine is offering patients like Peterson a new option.

The machine is called the NxStage System One.

"And I have a normal life basically, except for 2 1/2 hours I'm on the machine," Peterson said.

The last time Steve was on dialysis it meant going to a center three days a week, about four hours a session.

Now, dialysis happens five times a week for about two hours a session. However, the machine is portable, which allows for things like vacations.
 
Peterson has been using the system since December and said he notices the benefits.

"Once I got the machine and it cleaned my blood, now I feel like a normal person which is considerably different from being ill," said Peterson.

Dr. Erdal Sarac with The Renal Group For Kidney Care, said his practice was the first to offer this system to patients in the Valley. He has 10 patients on the machine and he said there's a number of advantages.

"One example is they have to take less phosphate binders, which is a common problem in dialysis patients when your kidneys fail. You cannot get the phosphates through the kidneys and when the phosphate levels go up, it causes lots of problems, like vascular heart disease and subsequently stroke," said Dr. Sarac.

Dr. Sarac said those using NxStage must undergo extensive training before they're allowed to take it home. Safeguards are built into the machine, and nurses are available 24/7 for any problems that may arise.

"It takes a committed patient or partner to do this type of dialysis," added Dr. Sarac.

Peterson's wife helps him with the process and he also gets a hand from his friend, Ken Yates, who has also learned the ins and outs of the process. 

"And I got up there and got fascinated with the machine and working with Steve on it, and I said, 'I can do this.' I'm not doing anything, you know," said Yates.

Peterson has the coffee ready for Yates in the morning when he comes over to help with dialysis.

"And it's amazing that I got the support of a friend and family," said Peterson.

His wife is currently undergoing tests to see if she can give him her kidney. He's got a lot to live for.

"I have four grandchildren and they keep you healthy," said Peterson.

Dr. Sarac said in-home dialysis can actually be less expensive than traditional options. Nationwide, about 10 percent of people on dialysis do it from home.

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