back on transplant list after cancer

[WishIKnew]

Hi all.

Life's a train wreck over here.  In the hospital for an infection, will be getting a fistula and a new perma cath on Monday if they can get the infection under control by then,

But, my question is, does any know how long I'll be inactive on the transplant list because of the cancer?

I have a double mastectomy planned but not scheduled because of the current kidney shit.  That will be followed by chemo and meds.  What do you think?  I've been told they'll reactivate me anywhere from 6 months to 5 years after oncology clears me.  Do you know anything more specific or helpful?

Diane

[MooseMom]

I have heard several people who have had cancer say that they had to wait five years before being re-activated, but I believe (and I could be mis-remembering) both of these folks had skin cancer.  I think I would ask your transplant team; they might have differing time frames for different types of cancer for all I know.  I'd hate to give you a reply based on a guess; this is just too important.  But when you find out, please let us know because that's a vital query.

[WishIKnew]

Thanks!  My transplant team wont give me an answer.  My transplant coordinator is intentionally vague.  But I've been hearing whispers of 5 years from others.  FIVE years!  Oh my God!

[Ang]

to get back on the list its at least a 3 year wait before you get re activated , but the bonus  is you should'nt lose your spot on the waiting list(you won't stay stagnate) on the list.
seniority goes on when you started dialysis.  good luck

[Riki]

I have a friend that told me that she needed to be cancer free for 2 years before she could go on the list.  She was almost to that point back in March, and they found more cancer.  She wasn't happy

[cariad]

WIK, I had always heard 2 years. I think you could probably negotiate time a bit depending on the type of cancer. That is probably why the coordinator is being so vague, because there probably is some variation. I know nothing about your type of cancer, except that I seem to remember reading you say that it was highly treatable. Anyhow, I've been wondering how you are getting on? Please check in when you get a moment. I hope we can offer some support during this ridiculously stressful time. 

[glitter]

my husband had kidney cancer and even though he was totally cured they said 5 years. Its because of the anti-rejection drugs- if there is any cancer anywhere it can greatly accelerate it, which is not good. So they want you to be cancer free for sure.  I thought it was unfair until I read more about the drugs. Its nessacary unfortunately, in the long run waiting could ensure you dont die from cancer. I am sorry to say that though, I dont mean to dishearten you.