Transplant Update

[MPK0706]

On July 11, 2019 I spent a full day at the hospital for testing. (28 different blood tests, psychological, social history, physical examination and review of other medical tests, such as an ABI, EKG, catscan and ultrasound). A few weeks later I received a letter informing me I was NOT approved for a transplant because of too many comorbidities. (Successful removal of left kidney RCC, neurogenic bladder, successful quadruple bypass and lower body weakness due to history of poliomyelitis). After hearing the news I was , understandably disappointed. One of the hospital physicians, who provided care for me earlier in the year heard the news and was not satisfied with the TRANSPLANT COMMITTEE’s decision. She said that, for a 76 year old person, I was in good shape and could handle transplant surgery. She, on my behalf, wrote a letter to the TRANSPLANT COMMITTEE and asked them to revisit their decision not to approve me for a transplant. The committee, based upon the request of this very well regarded physician, did meet again and they did reverse their decision. Because an average wait for a cadever kidney is 4-5 years, they did not place me on THE LIST because my health could further deteriorate in the next five years; age, dialysis, etc. I was approved for a LIVE DONOR Transplant. So, now my search is on for someone to donate one of their healthy kidneys to a 76 year old man with a number of pre-existing health issues! I did meet with the surgeon (last step in transplant evaluation) and he confirmed that, after a full physical examination, that I am transplantable! Well, there is more going on but that is where things stand now...October 28, 2019! Thanks for listening and caring. Best wishes to all those out there who are dealing with kidney failure! Be strong and always be willing to do all possible to STAY ALIVE!

[cs65 NKF Ambassador]

Good for you! It pays to never give up! I am on the transplant list and on dialysis for the past 3 years and am almost 68. It gives me hope hearing your story. Take care!

[brynat2]

I’m happy that they approved you for a transplant! I will pray that you will find a perfect match donor soon.

[Bunkin]

That’s awesome news😀😀 Continue the fight!!

[Carillon]

It's very tough. Anyway you look at it. Not only does one have to have all the pre-qualifications but then a good match needs to be found. I am not as yet on dialysis and am fighting to be accepted for a transplant given co-morbitities, but I have two friends who are willing to try to donate. I haven't asked family as they would be the best match and as such am a bit disappointed that family have not volunteered. Keep up and keep trying.

[mhawk123]

I am grateful for you and your opportunity. Your physician went above the call of duty to fight for you and I pray for continued doors to open for you. My one suggestion is to get on two transplant lists, if possible to expedient the process. Recruit your friends in the cause.

[KidneyCoach NKF Ambassador in reply to mhawk123]

As he said, he is not on the list rather approved for a transplant if and when he finds a LIVING donor. He can't dual list as he's not on the list per se.

Best of luck to you and CONGRATS.

[WYOAnne NKF Ambassador]

Congratulations on never giving up. And now you have to do the BIG ASK. NKF has info that could help. Before I had my transplant I was asking everyone, people at work, at church, my woman's club, neighbors, friends..... I have heard of people putting a sign out in their front yard of their need for a kidney. But I also heard of a man that had a t-shirt printed of his need for a kidney and his blood type. He wore the t-shirt to Disney when he went with his family. He got his donor.

My advice, always think outside the box.

Best of luck and keep us posted.