Transplant

[lindacolman14]

I would like to talk to someone who has had a lung transplant. I am being considered for the waiting list but I am still unsure whether this is the best thing for me. I am 63 so it would be helpful to talk to someone in my age group.

[Sohara]

I understand your worries Linda...but to be honest IF I could have the chance to have a transplant I would have it...I have heard of several successful operations like this, and not one bad result...but then I have to admit it would not be likely that I would hear of a bad result

There are many others on this site who are waiting for a transplant and sone are hoping to get on the list, and working to make themselves fit enough to get onto the list

Why do you feel it may not be your best option?

[lindacolman14 in reply to Sohara]

Hi

Thanks for taking the time to reply. My main concern I suppose is my age. Recovery from a major operation would probably be harder than for someone younger. If I thought I could manage my lung conditions with ambulatory oxygen and medication rather than risk maybe months out of my life recovering from a transplant, I would go for the first option. Pity we can't see into the future....

Hope you are managing to keep as well as you can.

Best wishes

Linda

[brooksju]

Hello there, I find your situation interesting, how were you considered for transplant, I too am 63 and with severe emphysema but I thought I would be too old for a transplant, I hope you don't mind me asking, what is your condition and who recommended transplant for you, sorry I can't give you any other information but best of luck to you with the transplant, keep well.

Jude

[lindacolman14 in reply to brooksju]

Hi

Thanks for taking the time to reply. I have bronchiectasis, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and emphysema. I was referred to Papworth hospital by the Royal Brompton hospital. The cut off age for transplant is 65. I went to Papworth early in June for first meeting with team. I am waiting for an angiogram as part of the assessment and also have to have a 3 day stay there for more tests. There are many hurdles to jump before you get on the waiting list. It seems that donated lungs generally go to younger patients with cystic fibrosis. I think it unlikely that I would be offered one but my concern is that given my age and what a major operation this is, my recovery may not be as good as someone younger. But I expect the transplant team would take this into consideration, you probably need to be in good health other than the lung problems.

I hope you are keeping as well as you can and are receiving all the medication available to help you.

Best wishes

Linda

[brooksju in reply to lindacolman14]

Thank you for replying Linda, very kind of you to give me your personal information, I do not have any other health problems other than severe emphysema, I think may be my lung problem is too severe but I will ask PR team about, I wish you good luck with your application and hope you are successful with a transplant. Stay well and free from infections.

Kind Regards

Jude

[seyre]

Hi, I am 63 years of age and had a double lung transplant in January after an eighteen month wait. My consultant sent me to Wythenshawe where I had an assessment (4 day as an in patient) in January 2012, September 2012 I went on the list.. I had one false call but in January all went ahead. I was in hospital nearly 3 months, my lungs were great but I ad problems with other organs. I was lucky they went ahead with the transplant as I was very weak. You have to think carefully but personally I would go ahead. I am now feeling great, a little slow and a few iccups but I ave a new lease of life. If you do decide to go ahead go to pulmonary rehab to build up your strength first, it helps recovery. Life is a gamble as is this but your symptoms are likely to get worse and you become more dependant on oxygen and help. Only you can decide, I just felt it was worth risking. Anything you want to ask please do. Sue E.xx

[lindacolman14 in reply to seyre]

Hi Sue

Thanks for your reply, it was very encouraging. I am attending pulmonary rehab at the moment but I must make sure to continue with all the good work once the course has finished.

Here's hoping you keep well and enjoy your new lease of life.

Best wishes to you

Linda

[seyre in reply to lindacolman14]

Hi Linda, They usually do a maintenance programme when the course has finished. I am hoping to get on the course to help build up my strength. Many thanks for your good wishes and good luck to you. Sue E