On Tuesday, May 23rd, 2023, Edmund and I will undergo a simultaneous kidney transplant procedure. It will be my kidney that will be transplanted into his body. Interestingly, both of his kidneys will remain in place, and my healthy kidney will be attached to his failing ones.
The hospital stay for me is expected to be just one night, while we hope that Edmund’s stay will be only four nights. My recovery period is relatively shorter, as I should be able to return to work within two weeks and fully recover in about six weeks.
Edmund’s recovery process will be slightly longer. He will need to visit the hospital twice a week during the first month and once a week during the second month. He will be closely monitored and followed up for the subsequent years.
It’s important to note that Edmund will need to take anti-rejection drugs for the rest of his life to ensure the success of the transplant.
After five years since my husband was diagnosed with chronic kidney disease, we have finally received confirmation for our upcoming kidney transplant surgery. Initially, I was in denial and believed that we could manage the disease through diet and exercise, despite the promise I made to donate my kidney if the need ever arose. However, as time went on, I came to understand that CKD can accelerate the natural decline of kidney function with age, leaving us with limited options: dialysis, death, or a transplant.
Contrary to popular belief, organ transplants are more common than one might think. In the United States alone, surgeons perform nearly 30,000 life-saving procedures each year, with kidney transplants being the most frequent, followed by liver, heart, and lung transplants.
Since we are a direct match, we are the same blood type and I had two viable kidneys that I willingly offered to donate one of my kidneys to Edmund, knowing that both of us will benefit from this process. There was a ton of testing to be approved. But this was much better than going o a list and waiting.
While I have been eagerly awaiting the opportunity to share this news with everyone over the past eight months, and many have praised me as a hero, I don’t consider myself braver or better than anyone else. I believe that most people would make the same decision in this situation. I am grateful to have a healthy kidney that can spare Edmund from relying on dialysis while waiting for a kidney from the transplant list.
By choosing to proceed with the transplant sooner rather than later, we are taking a proactive approach that will greatly enhance Edmund’s chances of healing and regaining an active life without complications. Although the thought of undergoing the procedure has weighed on me for the past eight months, I am confident that it is the right decision and will significantly improve our overall quality of life. While there may still be some lingering fear of the unknown, the excitement of finally moving forward toward our goal surpasses any hesitation or fear.
As the surgery date approaches, I am diligently preparing myself mentally and physically. I am taking all necessary precautions and strictly following the instructions provided by my healthcare professional. Although I may still experience some nerves, I am confident in my choice to undergo this procedure, firmly believing that the positive outcome will make it all worthwhile.
Good luck! Def the right choice. I know someone who donated a kidney to her hubby & alls’s good!!!
Wishing you and Edmund a speedy recovery!
Thinking of you and Ed, you will both be in my thoughts & prayers.
Thank you.
You are in my thoughts and prayers. Sending all positive vibes. xoxo
Beautiful note, and generous deed. You both are, and will remain in my thoughts and prayers for the best outcome. Dear friends.
Sending you & Ed our love, prayers & strength for a full & speedy recovery!
Stacy,
So sorry to hear that Ed needs a kidney. You are amazing and I hope you both have a quick and easy recovery. Wishing you both good health and All the best!!
♥️Julie Coppersmith
Brave & wise decision! You are in my prayers. All my best for a speedy recovery.