Transplant Eval Appt and a Treat Afterwards

[KarenInWA]

I don't know where to put this, but I just felt the need to share.  My GFR is around 20 (has fluctuated from 19-22 as of late) and will be going in for my transplant eval this upcoming Wednesday (Dec 1st).  I am nervous about this appointment.  I am not looking forward to it.  It makes my upcoming kidney failure a reality.  I lead a fairly busy life.  I work FT, sometimes work a little OT, and enjoy socializing.  Sometimes I do all of that on the same day!  So, to reward myself for going to this transplant clinic appointment, I and two friends are going to enjoy the Broadway musical "Hair" at the Paramount Theater in Seattle.

Front row tickets in the pit!!!!  We'll be right there, baby!!!

"When the moon is in the seventh house
And Jupiter aligns with Mars
Then Peace will guide the planet
And Lo-ove will steer the stars"

I can't wait!!!! 

[Riki]

That's cool... I like that treat.. *G*

[Matt58044]

Hi Karen,

I will have to say that I was overwhelmed by my transplant eval day.  Had to go through a few different tests, though nothing big or painful.  But all the talk about the transplant and the surgery and recovery was really overwhelming.  And on top of it, they had us meet with financial counselors and a lot of that stuff was overwhelming as well.

It may seem overwhelming just because there is SO much information to take in and things to think about.  Just remember, take it one day at a time and handle one thing at a time.

One good thing is, they'll remove some uncertainty about some things.

Good luck. 

[okarol]

I think it's great to have something to look forward to! 

The evaluation just takes time, so bring stuff to do in case you have to wait around. And write down the names of your team members in case you have questions later.

Good luck! 

[cariad]

Great idea!

I know evals can be daunting but I sense you will sail through it and enjoy Hair all the more for having put this major step behind you. Good luck, and enjoy the show!

[MooseMom]

I know this sounds odd, but I was really excited about my eval appt.  I had become so depressed just sitting around, waiting for the inevitable that when I got the go ahead for the evaluation, I was soooo ready to finally be in a position to do something POSITIVE.  I was eager to meet the people who would be helping me get a new kidney...they were all superb.  Perhaps you could look at it in a different way...you are interviewing THEM to see if THEY are the ones YOU want to work with.

A post eval treat is a great idea.  I went to the aquarium.

I'd be really interested in hearing about your appt after it's all been done and dusted.  Please post your thoughts and impressions!  It will all go really well, I'm sure.  I suspect you already know more than you realize.

[Chris]

Karen, the evaluation part is the easiest, all the testing and surgery can be the pain in the    part    I would say taking or making the time from work to do these things can be a little hectic. However look into you vacation time and sick leave options from HR if you haven't.
 
Just have your questions printed out so you can go down your list of main points to ask or find out. Take notes, bring or use your voice recorder on your phone to take recordings of meeting incase you miss something or develop a question afterwards..
 
You'll be fine.

[KarenInWA]

MooseMom - I will let you know my thoughts as soon as I can.  I agree, it's good to share one's experiences with these things!