After 14 years as a Kidney transplant survivor I recently learned that my transplanted kidney function is decreasing, and I will eventually need another transplant. But hey, I knew this day would eventually come and I have been preparing for it.
The next stage in my life will not be easy but ‘m expecting the road to be a little less bumpy because I’ve been down this road before and I’m more aware of the potholes.
Sending positive vibes to anyone reading this post!
Good luck
Thank you
I’m 12 years post transplant & going through the same thing. I have been feeling very depressed but your positivity and comments from others is helpful.
I am on my third transplant. I don't know where you live but find the best Hospital with the shortest wait time.
Thanks.
This time around I have two candidates that will get tested as possible matches.
So fingers crossed and prayers going up.
Many transplant centers now have paired programs. So if one of your possible donors don’t match you, they could possibly match someone in the paired program.
I got my second transplant at U of M’s paired program 9 years ago. My function is still good. My first transplant lasted almost 10 years. I think we all know that transplants are not a cure, but a form of treatment. And in the back of our minds we know our amazing gift most likely won’t be with us forever. We just learn to not dwell on it, which is definitely easier said than done.
I wish you well and hope your kidney is with you for as long as it can.
I am on my second transplant but I’m only 54. Chances are I’ll probably need another. I know after each transplant antibodies increase in our bodies and can make it difficult to get another match. Did you have to have any special treatments or care in order to ready your body for another successful transplant? I’ve had both mine at U of M. How about you?
I had no antibodies after 2 transplants and the Doctors had no idea why. My third was done in NJ. I am going on 5 years out July 2019 and trying to keep up to date on all new medication prescribed. Not all Doctors keep up or on the same page managing transplants. I keep in contact with my transplant center to check for changes in treatments and what medication I should be on every year.
Wow, that’s fantastic about the antibodies, or lack thereof! You’re right about not all doctors managing transplants the same. I’m dealing with a new doctor to me and having a difficult time trusting his decisions. Best wishes to you and your kidney for a long, healthy life together.
Update
I got my Doctor to call my Transplant Hospital Doctors in NJ and am now on Bactrim Mon, Wed. and Fri. I started it 2 weeks know and feel a lot better.
Have your Doctors call your Transplant center and find out what's right for you.
My wife is a Doctor and she tells me all kinds of Doctor stories. Question everything. Good Luck
I am closing in on 20 years but with the same prognosis. My doctors aren’t sure how long it will be but my graft function is declining, slowly and not on a straight line. There’s things you can do to preserve graft functionality, like keeping low blood pressure and blood sugar, cutting back on protein, etc. Your doctors doubtlessly will work with you to keep your declining function as slow as possible but we’re in the same place, knowing it’s inevitable. Good luck!!
Thanks for the info. Yes, I'm working closely with my docs and I have two candidates that will be tested when the time comes. Good luck to you as well.
You have the right attitude miles-Jean, I'm on my second transplant and I fill renewed, but it's like you said this time you know what to expect and you know it's coming so you can get prepared mentally, emotionally and physically, I pray your wait time is short & your new kidney comes quickly & last you the rest of your life, I'm pulling & praying for you miles-Jean & sending only positive vibes your way, be blessed.😊
Thank you for the reassuring words, positive vibes and prays. Sending blessing your way as well.
Good luck!!! Sending prayers for strength and good health ur way
Thank you
Stay positive my friend, you have a great attitude! God bless you on your journey.
Hi there. My husband is in the same boat. His transplanted kidney (2008) is showing signs of not working so well either. I wish you the best. Your positive attitude will get you through the tough days, and you're right...knowing what to expect makes things a little easier. You are not alone.
Thinking of you.. its not an easy road. All the best.
hello - I too am 14 years out. I know that transplant is not a cure & I will undoubtedly be needing another transplant down the road. This being said I’m not sure how I’ll deal with failure of my current kidney. How blessed was I that my dear friend donated to me in 2009. With over 100.000 people on the transplant list & 12 people dying daily while waiting there is an opportunity to make living donation a more appealing idea.
The Living Donor Protection Act is currently being reviewed by the Senate & the House. Although the LDPA is the law in 29 states it needs to pass on a National level. Please contact your congress person & senators to express your support.
have a lovely spring Jean 🌷
#MyKidneyHealth
I’m curious I’m 4 years post transplant do all Kidney eventually fail and new a second or third one?
Best of luck! Did you have a living donor with this transplant?
Looking forward for a kidney transplant
DIAGNOSED WITH FSGS WAITING FOR A KIDNEY TRANSPLANT
A preemptive kidney transplant? 
