Just beginning the journey to donate

[ALO1954]

I am healthy, almost 69, and thanks to my dog, I walk about 90+ miles every month. I live on the West Coast and within the next couple of weeks I will begin testing to become a kidney donor to my 61 yr. sister who lives in NYC. I guess my biggest questions center around the preparation before and recovery period after donating a kidney. I realize that every situation is different, but I would be grateful for your suggestions, a 'to do' list, an 'items to bring for comfort during recovery' list or anything else that may help.

I have so many questions for my transplant 'team' and doctor. Are there any questions you wish you had asked before or after the surgery?

Thanks!

[MrSoft]

Hi, I'm in the UK and 10 months post donating. Just try and make sure you have people around you after the op that can help you with every day things... Generally moving about first week or so. Walk the dog for you , help put your socks on!!... Every day shopping ,... You'll obviously not want to be moving around too much for first couple of weeks... As a time scale I was desperate to make a pre booked outdoor concert and at exactly 3 weeks post donor op I wasn't quite comfortable enough to make it... Had been cancelled previous two years due to Covid so really annoying but definitely the right choice.

The pain post op is soon forgotten when you see the incredible difference it makes to your sister.

I thought I'd be really bored in hospital , but really enjoyed sleeping so the time flew by. The third day I was discharged.

Is a great thing you are doing hope all goes well with your texts and possible op

[ALO1954 in reply to MrSoft]

Thank you for your reply. I've got a great collection of people for support. Taking lots of deep breaths but you message helps to reassure me. Best wishes to you!

[mshah46 in reply to ALO1954]

Such inspiring !! you will be fine post transplant. Just take care few weeks and your life will be very much normal. You must be proud of your life and wishing your sister best life ahead.. My father has donated me kidney in 2003 and till now he is enjoying good and stable life. Just don't do strenuous work which exhaust you.

[ALO1954 in reply to mshah46]

thank you for your support!