Fairly new to all this...

[MajorBC81]

In need of Kidneys and Liver transplant, I reside in El Paso, TX. and need to travel to Dallas, TX. for treatment at Dallas Methodist Hospital. It's been rough these past two years, I thought I could do this alone. But I am wrong, lost all my friends, family is trying but it's not easy and cheap. I can truly need some direction, assistance finding helpful tools for my situation. Most of all I can use a simple conversation.

[Bassetmommer]

Hi Major,

NO one knows how it feels to be losing the function of our major organs unless you are going through it yourself. We here are doing just that. There is an isolation that happens but not because people are mean, they just do not get it. They cannot comprehend the mental anguish and, if you have any, symptoms. It doesn't seem fair, but the world goes on without us. But you are not alone. We all walk similar paths and are here to listen and support you. Tell us more about your journey and ask any questions you might have. Are you listed for your transplants? Ask around to see if there are any support groups locally. If you lost "friends" because of your illnesses, they weren't friends. Tell us more about you.

[Jayhawker]

Good morning,

I’m not sure whether you need transportation to Dallas for transplant evaluation or for something else kidney-related.

I’m single with no family left so have to find transportation help regularly. (I have a low vision impairment so no longer drive.) You might find reaching out to a social worker affiliated with Dallas Methodist Hospital to be helpful as regards finding transportation options. The kidney/liver transplant center at Dallas Methodist may also have suggestions. I have hired a person for transportation help through care.com which has worked out well for me. Local churches can sometimes help.

Without knowing more about you specific situation, it’s hard to help you brainstorm possible solutions. My ideas may not be options for you. However, there will be something that works. Please share a little more about your situation with us.

Jayhaeker

[CKD2-4]

Hi. You might check with your health insurance to see if they could offer any assistance. Mine has indicated they will cover transportation costs and hotel for my transplant and reimburse for meals- I also think reaching out to the hospital social worker is a great idea. They can help you figure out resources to help you. Hang in there things will get better.

[Eyak1971]

You are experiencing many strong emotions at once. That may be hard for others around you to understand. You probably have so many questions and want to understand it all at once. You are upset about the situation and loss of control. At least that is what I went through. My initial response was anger and then I traveled through all the steps of grief silently to myself because that kept it unreal. Finally I realized that I needed to share and went to a counselor. It was the first time I could cry. That release cleared my mind and I began my journey of knowledge. I lived alone and family and friends were geographically or emotionally distant. I realized this was a journey I would be taking alone. People at work never knew of my journey for years until I finally allowed my daughter to make it public. A year later I received a transplant. But that journey still continues. At times I still experience moments of grief but knowledge brings back control and if forum is great for - knowledge. Knowledge that you do not get from a doctor or nurse, even though that is important. So we are here for your journey. It will be frustrating and very often slow but you will get to a point and share your experience with others. Always remembering you were there once. Take care and give yourself a hug. You need one.

[horsie63]

I can understand needing a kidney transplant. I live in a rural area and family is scattered to other states and there are no friends out here. I do in center hemodialysis for several reasons but mostly cause I can talk to people there who understand. This is a great community for talking to people who get where you are.

[OriginalDanSuush]

I was in need of both organs and it’s rough for sure. Are you on a list? I know that University of Maryland does a really good job. I was high risk and was only given 3 weeks to live and everyone said no to me but the University of Maryland and they gave me the best gift ever! We’re here for you stay positive and never give up.

[ShyeLoverDoctor]

There are phone numbers to call, one on one free peer mentoring, all at kidney.org

Hotline number for kindeys

[ShyeLoverDoctor]

There is an online non profit organization called Renal Support Network that has online every other week support groups. Rsnhope.org

[3kidney]

Hello MajorBC81,

I know this is difficult to go through but please know that we are all here to help in some way. I received my kidney transplant back in 2008. I live in El Paso, TX also and had to travel to San Antonio to have my surgery. This too shall pass, I know you may feel lost or alone, but things will get better. Let me know how I can help.