To transplant or not?

[grannysgirl]

 The transplant center notified me yesterday that I am finally on the waiting list with some conditions that have to be met first. I had stents inserted in January. I had teeth extracted and now before they will not transplant until I have  repeated cardiac cath. Well, I already know the end result of this one. They only stented one blockage and they will not touch me until they stent two more blockages. I understand but this is depressing. And if I reach 70 yrs old first they will not transplant.   I think I should research others ways to survive. I only have to wait 3 to 5 yrs. I did have a live donor but she changed her mind.  oh I forgot the most important change needed. I have a cath. I need to get a fistula.

[RichardMEL]

I'm not sure if you're actually asking for an opinion or not  but I'll offer my two cents anyway, because I'm nice like that, and my fingers need the exercise

This is such a personal decision it's very hard to even know what to suggest. I guess all I can say is that if you meet the conditions they are asking for, it's going to improve your physical condition anyway I should think, so I see no reason to not do that stuff just for yourself. If/when they call with an offer, you can still say no if you decide you're not ready, or have changed your mind. It is probably a good thing to have that opinion there.

I know you said they won't transplant post 70, and I'm not sure how old you are, but I will assume from the context that you're headed there. Yes, that is definitely an issue to consider as well... plus your current quality of life (are you happy with dialysis? does it give you the freedom you want/need?).

Nobody but you can answer these questions in terms of the potential benefits to you, vs the cost (and going through a major operation like that). It would probably be worth sitting with your neph and discussing these thoughts with them to get their perspective and making an informed judgement.

Whatever you choose, best of luck!

[Bajanne]

Welcome to our community.  I can't help you with your question since transplant is not an option for me right now.  But my thoughts are with you and you have come to a place where many will give you advice and support.  Think of IHD as your family caring and sharing.






Bajanne, Moderator

[RichardMEL]

Just a note to say I moved this topic from the Introducions section to the Transplant section as it's a very worthy topic for this area, as well as an introduction.

RichardMEL, Moderator