Deciding to live.

The decision to begin chronic hemodialysis and, therefore, to fight for survival, creates an alliance between patient, family members, and medical staff. This alliance, which evolves by passing through various phases, becomes a central point in the difficult process which should permit the gradual achievement of independence. An example of this may be seen in the history of a young man of 21, who underwent a kidney transplant seven years ago. Analyzed in this article are certain moments of this case history, particularly the choice of treatment and the meaning of the word "choise" in this reality.