Spring Time!

[YollyD_NKF]

Do you have a favorite spring sport or activity? Have you had to modify your exercise routine after donating?

[marcyc NKF Ambassador NKF Peer Mentor]

No restrictions after donating. I like to walk/hike and in a natural area if possible. There is a great book called the Nature Fix. There is scientific evidence that being out in nature helps rejuvenate you both physically and mentally.

[EchoMax1012 in reply to marcyc]

Interesting to me, that a couple of donors (me included) have actually made more of a commitment to personal health, because of donation, and prioritizing our health status. I am working out aerobically more, and another living donor just completed her first triathlon.

[DSKdonor NKF Ambassador in reply to EchoMax1012]

you are correct EchoMax1012! I read a study published about 10 years ago (can't remember if it was by the NKF or not) stating that Living Donors have a 31 day average LONGER life expectancy than non-donors!! Guessing it's because we do make a bit more of a commitment to our personal health.

[EchoMax1012 in reply to DSKdonor]

Well, there's another side to this story. In order to be a living donor, as you know, you have to pass a battery of tests and exams; 75-80% of people who wish to donate are excluded due to a number of health problems. So, if we are among the healthiest 20% of the population, I would expect us, as a group, to live longer than average.

[vegiedonor in reply to EchoMax1012]

It's great to hear that other people actually take care of themselves. I too, since donating, have increased my daily exercise from 60 minutes to 90 and try to forgo any salt. With Spring coming my recumbent bike comes off the exercise stand and I'm back on a trail somewhere. Looking forward to biking Lakeshore Drive in Chicago May 26 when it's closed to autos. Although I really like to do long distance bike rides when I have a chance. My kids and grand kids want me around for awhile so I have a good excuse for staying healthy.

[EchoMax1012 in reply to vegiedonor]

Very well done!!! The importance of self-care is relevant to people who donate, people who are recipients, and people who are waiting. It's great to hear how you are staying physically active.

[EchoMax1012]

I donated three years ago, and have gradually increased my level of exercise. Currently, I do about 45 minutes of aerobic activity per day, 6-7 days per week. Also, I believe diet to be very important, and I have a plant-based, whole food way of eating.