I was asked to share a little about the “Living Donation Experience”, a great experience with a tremendous outcome.
The whole thing started with a simple survey and blood test. It was very easy. Once I was determined to be a match (I was the #2 match for my recipient- the #1 had a kidney stone) we started the “real testing”. They spent 2 days making certain that I had no predictable need for my spare kidney. All sorts of tests and x-rays (they had to make sure I had 2 kidneys- loads of people are born with one and never know) and I even drank an isotope to see how long it took my body to process it.
In the process they found out I had a sleeping disorder – I got a c-pap. They found a heart condition – I now see a cardiologist. They also made absolute sure I wanted to do the donation and would have no regrets- even asking me on the way to the OR. I even had a random drug test. I know more about me than most people do by far!
I had to abstain from all food (even and especially coffee) the day of surgery. They had me at the hospital around 5 ( the recipient got there about an hour after) double checked me and wheeled me in to the OR. I woke up in the early afternoon – really wanting coffee – I had to wait for it. Slept on and off for the day.
Did it hurt? a little – I did what the Dr said and for about a week or 2 it felt just like i had done too many sit ups. It was easy- I never filled my pain med prescription. I donated on a Friday and was mall walking on Monday (a brief walk- the anesthesia made me tired for a few weeks after)
I did gain weight as I had to “take it easy” for about 6 weeks- i was provided a nurse and a nutritionist. Lots of follow up care and trips to Rochester (I donated at Strong) to make sure I was recovering well.
Point of interest- my urine tests at this point are in the “normal” range for someone with 2 kidneys- the one I kept has grown and taken the load – no problems. I’d do it again.
A little on Kidney Donation
