It is very individualized at Mayo would be my answer, as it is best to be as fit as possible to be ready for the challenges following transplant.

@becky53, Hi Becky and welcome to our group. I went through the pre-qualifying tests last Nov for a double lung transplant. To answer your question about the preferred BMI for that kind of transplant.....the Mayo did show me a chart that they'd like for patients to follow. They don't like to transplant people whose BMI falls below 18. I am at 20 and that is ideal. I don't remember what the maximum number is, but I know that if it is too high; they will put you on a weight loss program. Being fit as possible is beneficial of course, but they do have guidelines for BMI. I tried to Google the higher BMI figure for you, but could not pin point the answer. I can look through my files tomorrow if you are feeling worried about the other figure. I was put on the 'deferred' list for now as I have not declined enough yet to warrant transplantation yet. Are you in need of a transplant?

@caligali, Hi there. I have a question for you. Do you know of a good medical institution in or near the L.A. area that would have good specialists for autoimmune diseases, specifically - ulcerative colitis? Thank you!

The only one I know of is at UCLA Center for Inflamatory Bowel Diseases. Not sure of specific specialists there. 🙂

@caligali, Barb,thank you so much! I will pass that info along.

You are very welcome!