This week I had more education on life after transplant, met with clinical support, saw my doc 3 days, had labs drawn a couple of times, tried to complete a lothalamate clearance to assess my kidney function (I couldn’t complete it-so I may have to do it again or figure out another option), had a bone density test and met with my post-transplant nurse. 

 

On Friday I met with my nephrologist to discuss my potential dismissal, future visits and review my final medication doses. I found out that my bone density test came back normal and  established a baseline for any future potential issues. The anti-rejection medication tends to be a bit hard on the bones, so they keep a close eye on that. My BK virus was negative, my heart test came back normal and my kidney is functioning at 51% which is normal in those who only have one kidney. One test came back somewhat concerning,... an antibody test. They found new antibodies floating around in my blood so they did another test to figure out why they're in my system. Unfortunately, I received the news they developed to fight my donor’s organ. At this time, the level is fairly low so the doctor isn’t too worried... so if they're not, I’m not either. However, they'll be monitoring this very closely. I asked what would happen if the antibodies increased, and wasn't given a direct answer. I’m assuming they're protecting me from something?

 

On to good news, I was "officially" discharged from the hospital and was able to head home on the 19th (Clay's birthday).  I have a few more visits to Rochester and have access to our apartment until November 30th, so we haven't "officially" moved home yet. I have to get my rear-end in gear and try to get my 1,000 piece puzzle put together so I can transport it home. I do not want to start that one over again!

 

Chase's pup, Tia, was excited to see me and I'm pretty sure I got a million kisses (aka licks) from her. I don't know who missed who more, me or her? Instead of me getting Clay flowers for his birthday, he got me two dozen beautiful red roses. He never ceases to amaze me and I love him more and more every day. Besides those beautiful roses, I also received a beautiful bouquet of  flowers from Stitch Fix... a clothing company I subscribe to. The note included read: "Hi Sandra, your stylist Brittany shared with us that you recently underwent surgery for a kidney transplant. We wanted to reach out to send you well wishes and thought these flowers would help bring a smile to your face during recovery. We're sending so much strength and healing your way and are wishing you a well recovery! You've got this! -Your Stitch Fix Family" I was utterly shocked when I got them and they will always have my support!

 

I got to see my grand-kiddos on Friday and was able to give them the blankets "Linus Blankets" generously gave me. They really loved them, so I took a photo of the 3 amigos and will be printing it out with a thank you to give to the Linus Blanket volunteers as well as the owners of our apartment. Everyone in Rochester has been extremely kind and generous to us throughout this journey.

 

I had a rough Saturday morning.  I physically got sick after I took my anti-rejection meds so I immediately called Rochester. After some deliberation they decided I didn't need to take my pills again, which makes me a bit nervous, especially with those antibodies floating around in my bloodstream. I am going to trust I will be ok as they are the best medical professionals in the world. They are extremely persistent the meds must be taken exactly 12 hours apart every day, so I'm hoping the important ones were dissolved before they came back up. 

 

I have a lot more things I need to do before I can get into my "new normal" routine. I must sign up for Medicare, (otherwise when I turn 65, Medicare won't cover my meds. I especially need the most important ones... the anti-rejections. If they don't cover them, my cost could add up to $60,000 per year!) I also need to schedule my weekly labs in Mankato, my flu and phenomena shots, the pheumovax 23 shot or booster (not sure what that is), my COVID 19 & tetanus boosters, and numerous other things. It's fairly overwhelming. 

 

With all the things going on, I'm extremely grateful for having my health over wealth. I continue to get stronger and stronger every day and look forward to seeing you all soon.

 

Take care! Until next time...cheers!

XOXO ~Sandra