Patients
Stories
One of the best ways to find
out about kidney transplantation is to learn from someone who has been a
recipient or a donor. We asked some of our patients to tell their stories and to
share with you some of their thoughts about what it was like to have a kidney transplant or to be a kidney donor at the VA Iowa City Health Care System Medical Center.
Emil from Illinois
Emil told us that his deceased
donor kidney transplant has changed his life. Emil
said, "Knowing you have the freedom to leave the area and not being tied
down for dialysis is overwhelming." He is looking forward to "going on
vacation and being able to live a normal life." Emil adds that he is
"very grateful for the chance for a better life ahead. I'm thankful for
the donor and the donor's family. Without them I wouldn't have had that
chance. I would like to thank the wonderful family of my donor."
Mario from Puerto Rico
Mario's wife, Elena, was his kidney donor. They traveled all the way from
Puerto Rico for their surgeries. Mario told us transplant recipients should not
worry about having to travel to Iowa. "I don't think you'll find a
better or kinder staff anywhere else." He adds, "The competence of the
doctors and staff, and a positive attitude on your part, will give you a winning
combination." Mario thanks "research and 'good old American know-how'.
To people with doubts, I say, 'Just do it!' Life sure can be wonderful
again, and your family will be grateful, especially your children." While
reflecting upon his wife's donation, he said, "For donors, I believe the
worst part is emotional, not physical. Donation is an unselfish act of
love."
Elena from Puerto Rico
Elena describes her donor surgery as "a wonderful experience. I've had
three surgeries in my life, and all three were to give life: two C-sections and
a kidney donation." To those who worry about kidney donation, Elena says,
"The little pain you experience is nothing compared to the satisfaction you
get from being able to give the gift of life." Elena adds, "The
satisfaction of giving something to make another person's life better will
last forever."
Rosendo from California
Rosendo received his kidney from his adopted daughter. Rosendo admits he
"was worried that the kidney wouldn't work, but I had faith in the
doctors and staff, and I knew they would do everything possible to have
everything go right." He adds that he was surprised by "how fast the
whole process was" and that it was "almost painless." While we
wouldn't agree that any surgery is painless, we do agree with his parting
statement. "Don't be afraid, have faith in yourself and the staff. Go for
it!" Rosendo is happy that he "will be able to do things I haven't
been able to do for several years. I will not be worried about the next dialysis session."
Paulina from Washington State
Paulina donated her kidney to her father, Rosendo. Paulina worried
"about my kidney not working for my dad because we are not blood
related." She told us, " Everything worked out great and I'm proud
to be the donor." Her advice to others considering donation is, "Do
it. Feel great about the special gift you're giving." She'd like others
to know that "this experience is one I'll never forget, and I wouldn't
trade it for the world. I would do anything for my folks without question."
Jose from Puerto Rico
Jose received his kidney from his brother and is doing quite well. In fact,
Jose tells us that prior to his surgery, "I was thin and did not feel good.
Now I look and feel very healthy." Jose adds, "My life has changed. I
feel like I have a second chance, and it makes me cherish and treasure all that
I have. I now have a positive new look to the future." We asked Jose what
he is looking forward to now, and he replied, "I hope to enjoy my life with
my family and to see my grandchildren grow up."
Jan from Iowa
Jan received his kidney from his wife, Dee. Jan told us the best part of the
entire transplant process for him is, "Eating again after five years on a
renal diet." He said he was surprised by "how much better I felt after
the recovery time." He adds, "At first I was apprehensive about my
wife donating her kidney to me. After the recovery, she is doing well and her
health is as good as it was before."
Dee from Iowa
Dee said the best part of her experience was "the Transplant Nurse
Coordinator. She made the whole process so much easier." The decision to
donate was not difficult for Dee. "It was heart-breaking to see my husband
so sick, and if there was anything I could do to make him better, I would. At
first, he didn't want me to be tested, but after all other family members
weren't matches, he agreed." Her advice to others considering donation
is, "Go for it. It is a great satisfaction to see someone come back to life
after receiving a new kidney. And the donor's operation and recovery is a
small price to pay, compared to what the recipient would have to go through
without the transplant." Dee has some parting thoughts, "To know I
gave the 'Gift of Life' gives me a great sense of caring and satisfaction. I
would do it over again. It was wonderful to be able to help my husband. There is
a bond between us that no one can take away. And seeing him feel good again is
wonderful."
A big thank you to everyone who generously shared their personal stories and
graciously allowed us to quote them in this website. We hope their testimonies
give you inspiration and encouragement.
If you would like information about kidney transplantation and donation from
the points of view of other patients, donors, and families, we encourage you to
visit the two websites listed below:
www.johnfmartin.net
John F. Martin, a gifted photojournalist, offers his fascinating personal
account of his own kidney failure, dialysis, transplantation, and recovery,
complete with dozens of
exceptional photographs.
www.tissotfamily.com
The amazing story of a mother and father, Gene and Millie Tissot, and their two sons, Brian and Craig. In 1993,
Gene donated his kidney to his son, Brian, and Craig
donated his kidney to his mother, Millie. Their 2002 update allows readers to see how well all four of them
are doing.
Review the VA Disclaimer on external links.
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