Bruno Palmieri, a 57-year-old patient at San Donato Hospital, Italy, has been on hemodialysis for an extraordinary 45 years, achieving a unique milestone in the country. Starting treatment at just 11 years old, he has lived a full and active life, thanks to his commitment and the exceptional care provided by his medical team. Although unable to undergo a kidney transplant, Bruno’s journey underscores the life-sustaining power of dialysis and stands as a testament to medical advancements and human resilience.
Bruno blew out 45 candles on February 8th. His is a special “birthday”, because it does not concern his birth, but marks the beginning of his life as a haemodialysed patient. In fact, Bruno Palmieri spent most of his 57 years in the department San Donato hospital, in Italy, now directed by Dr. Paolo Conti. An existence marked by three sessions a week which gave him back, as he himself says, his life.
“If I am here having lived 45 springs, travelled, and lacked for nothing, I owe it to dialysis”, explains Bruno. Today, a surprise arrived for him: an unexpected gift from the Director of Nephrology and Dialysis and the Nursing Coordinator, Sandra Sacchetti. It is a plaque that all the healthcare workers in the department chose to give him to honor and celebrate this important milestone.
Bruno’s story :
Bruno’s case is unique in Italy – a patient with a history of 45 years on haemodialysis. He was just 11 years old when, on 8 February 1979, he first crossed the threshold of the hemodialysis department of the Arezzo hospital to begin treatment. “It’s a record”, says Dr. Paolo Conti.
| Bruno has witnessed the entire evolution of hemodialysis, from its early days to the advancements we see today. Reaching this significant milestone is also a testament to his dedication – strictly following the rules, monitoring his diet, and maintaining his weight. He is a cooperative patient. | Unfortunately, unlike others, Bruno cannot undergo a kidney transplant due to his specific pathology. |
Bruno, holding the plaque with deep emotion, says: “If I am here today, it is thanks to the doctors and healthcare staff of this hospital. This department is truly exceptional.” Bruno, a former caretaker of the ‘Le Caselle’ sports hall and now active in associations supporting those undergoing hemodialysis, continues: “I have had the opportunity to undergo dialysis in other hospitals while on holiday, including abroad and even on a cruise. But I have never encountered the level of professionalism I have experienced at San Donato Hospital. This is evident in the number of long-term patients here – it is not just me. There are many who have been on dialysis for over 20 years, and the credit belongs to this hospital and its dedicated healthcare workers.”
“Dialysis is life”, Bruno adds, “Without it I would not be here today, nor would I have been able to travel and visit so many incredible places”.
Dr. Conti highlights the significance of Bruno’s journey: “Bruno’s story is a message of hope. Despite its limitations, dialysis has enabled him to live, work, engage in politics, and actively participate in associations, all while maintaining a good quality of life”.
Over the course of 45 years, Bruno has been cared for by four head physicians in Arezzo: Mauro Sasdelli, who introduced him to dialysis and followed his case for 30 years, Stefano Bianchi, Ennio Duranti, and the current director, Paolo Conti. His case has also been featured in the proceedings of the 64th National Congress of the Italian Society of Nephrology.
Disclaimer: The blog series is intended for informational purposes only and is not meant to endorse or promote any specific drug, product, or brand. Each individual’s experience is unique and should not be construed as medical advice or a guarantee of similar results for others. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions regarding your health and well-being.
