@colleenyoung, it seems to be the better shape you are in the easier it is to recover. Although there are circumstances that may inhibit that. I was in good shape when I initially was hospitalized and then with the added fluid before the balloon pump and then being on the balloon pump for 9 days didn't help me maintain that. Prior to being hospitalized I was trying to build my leg strength and I believed that help but your muscle deplete a LOT faster then they build. So getting and trying to maintain mobility strength is important.

When I was going through the evaluation for the third and thankfully final time, I felt like after the transplant Mayo would "own" my body. That is not their intent at all. They want you to live your life after transplant as much as you want. There are added precautions I have to take now but after transplant I don't feel like Mayo "owns" my body. I do what I want when I want. They just give you the knowledge that make the best decision for you.

Now a year and over a month out, I am still working on building my endurance and being able to walk long distances. My heart doesn't seem to pick up it's needs to pump faster when I am walking. I can do other exercises and get my heart rate up relative quickly but not walking. I have never fit into the "normal" box so I just assume this is another area where I am different. But on that note, I am seeing progress. Just little by little. I'm trying to be patient with my body and take what wins I can. I have been purposefully breathing harder to make sure my muscles have to oxygen they need but maybe I should try jumping jacks or something to get my heart rate up before I start walking. Still figuring things out.