General
Just want to say hello. wasnt sure to actually meet people here
May 2, 2025
in General
Oddly, I never thought to check for forums until now.
I had liver/kidney 4.5 yrs ago. Along with complications along the way. I spend my time with family as I was able to leave the workforce after my years of engineering professions.
Matt
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Hello
Hello Matt,
I had my liver and kidney transplants 14 years ago and although I am mostly healthy, I did have complications like a stroke. I think that I’ve mostly recovered now and I’m living as a transplant. patient I had to give up a career in education..
Transplant Patient
Hi!!! So glad you’re here
I’m a liver transplant recipient, 5 years, also with my fair share of challenges. After my transplant I fell down the mind body connection rabbit hole and now spend my days working with people as they navigate transplant, chronic illness and embodied emotions. I also lead the support groups here on transplantlyfe!
I am a fact based straight shooter so just to list my debacles:
1) It was a total surprise to me when I learned I needed transplants
2) I started dialysis and at some point started getting hepatic encephalopathy sending me to the ER 26 times in 12 months, plus more trips after that B4 transplant
3) My dialysis port got infected which got to and subsequently cost me 5 surgeries a hip, followed by a Girdlestone procedure so I had 1 leg to use until I could get hip replacement, after 6 months infection free, then finally transplant at 19 moths in. A lot more hurdles occurred along the way.
A have a new hip. I don't need to work anymore so I stopped. I spend every hour my 10 yr daughter has for me - with her.
Given how good my life is now, if told I had to do it all again to keep this current life - I would have to do it again knowing how good life is now.
I am hoping only that some person may be helped thru conversation with me at some point :)
Matt
AliEm14 - thoughtful of you to start this.
Also, curious for the mind/body connection topic but Ill look for posts! I have seen a few topics about personality interjections from donor (saviors) DNA and can say I have found a few things like this.
I am on every 3 month bloodwork with the frequency driven by kidney maintenance. No issues, all good. And I don't mind the 3 month rate at all. Better for less chance of surprises.
I have had no transplant medical concerns to date.
I'll also note my career in Engineering and Quality within mostly Manufacturing nationally and abroad.
Karlyn, the stroke is not what you needed - that sucks I'm sure.
Matt
Transplant Patient
I'd love to chat about it if you ever want to DM me too! I was a yoga teacher pre-transplant, got certifications in embodiment coaching, somatic psychology and polyvagal theory afterwards. It's probably my favourite thing to talk about
Hi! I am a little over 5 years post liver transplant and only had 1 one complication post transplant (within the first 2 months). I am healthy now and have been back working in the Manufacturing field as an engineer since then.
Glad you are here to share your experience!
Hi, Matt. I unexpectedly ended up in the hospital in my mid-twenties requiring emergency dialysis. My kidneys had failed and I had no idea whatsoever. I was ultimately diagnosed with a rare, hereditary condition. My best buddy donated a kidney to me and I'm 11+ years out and doing pretty well overall. Glad you decided to join us here on the forums.