Inching closer to a transplant

[highway61]

The surgery is scheduled for March 13th. Today my living donor, a loving sister-in-law, and myself had pre-admission tests and examinations today. We were able to meet up in the lobby and then head off in different directions in the hospital.

As I have has said here earlier, I feel sorta guilty and somewhat selfish about accepting a kidney from a relative by marriage who volunteered to donate. Meeting with her today made me feel so much better. She seemed so happy and talked about times when my wife and I just dating where we included her in our plans.

She appreciated that I didn't mind my date's little sister tagging along. My wife and I have been married for 34 years. After hearing this I feel so much more at ease. It seems like more of a two way street.

What I mean is that as the littlest, youngest girl her older sister's dates didn't want her around and I was the only one that didn't mind. She still remembers this stuff. So a lot of my reservations are relieved. It seems OK now. Plus seeing her happy about it was a big plus.

I hope this makes sense to you all. Obviously this the all new to me. I have been on PD for a very few months and have posted in those chat areas about my experiences.

[coravh]

I think it's great that you are getting more comfortable with the transplant. I'll bet you are both nervous and looking forward to it. I know I was. Best of luck to you both.

Cora

[willowtreewren]

I do understand about feeling kind of guilty. But the truth is that those who give, whether it is an organ or something less dramatic, also receive through their gifts. Doing something for others is so important and rewarding. We often forget that it is extremely meaningful to give something.

We have a friend who wanted desperately to give a kidney to my husband. She is still very upset that she was denied. And I, also wanted to donate. It was odd because I wanted to donate, but I didn't especially want to go through surgery. My kidneys weren't good enough, though.

The important thing is to accept the gift graciously and with expressed gratitude. 

I'm so pleased for you and for your sister in law.

Aleta

[Poppylicious]

And I, also wanted to donate. It was odd because I wanted to donate, but I didn't especially want to go through surgery.

I don't think that's odd!  I certainly didn't want to go through the surgery.

 

highway, just think ... if you'd been one of those dates who moaned and grumbled about the little sister tagging along you (possibly) wouldn't be about to receive her kidney (although you probably still would, because she's obviously just lovely).  It's the tiny things we do in our lives which have the potential to make a difference.

Ten days!

 

[Joe]

That is way good news highway! Hopefully I'm following close behind you. My donors are scheduled for their follow up appointments in the next two weeks.

[okarol]

  Best wishes all goes well!

[highway61]

Good luck, Joe. We will have you in our prayers.

Thanks to everyone for the well wishes and good vibes. This has been an ordeal.