This study describes the perceived consequences of illness and treatment among end stage renal disease (ESRD) patients. A qualitative, explorative-descriptive design was used, which included continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) (n = 26), hemodialysis (HD) (n = 30), and transplantation (n = 30) patients. Data collection was performed using unstructured interviews, mostly in the patients' homes. All interviews were tape-recorded with permission from the informants, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed by content analysis. An overall theme was identified, "Wishes for independence and normality." Four main categories emerged: "Wish for normality," "Wish to manage one's own life," "Deprivation of one's normal life," and "Concerns." Interview statements were classified in 11 subcategories: live as usual, keep up appearances, social comparison, hope/fulfilled dreams, freedom/lack of freedom, control/lack of control, losses, dependence on others, physical problems, disgusted with oneself, and broodings. The perceived consequences of being an ESRD patient are multidimensional and involve several aspects of everyday life. It is important for nurses to appreciate the patient's view of illness as well as the patient's perceived stressors and expectations. It may help to direct the focus of nursing assessment in planning and implementing nursing care.