@benlam11 To make your life easier before/during/after transplant, get yourself as healthy as possible. Stop tobacco and alcohol, eat a healthy and natural diet (cook things from their natural state), reduce caffeine and sodas, and get as fit as possible (walking or swimming daily are the best start). Begin practicing cleanliness: sanitize countertops before, during and after use; designate separate cutting boards for vegetables and meat; stop using wooden cutting boards for meat; wash hands well and often; get used to having and using sanitizers; reduce use of perfumes, air fresheners, etc. (that may be masking odors rather than cleaning them); review your live plant situation and reduce to minimal care house plants; review your pet situation and arrange for someone else to manage bathing, brushing and urine/feces; look for and address any mold issues anywhere in your house; and set a schedule for cleaning heat/air vents/covers.

Issues for transplanted organs should be provided by your doctors at the time of transplant. You will be informed of the points of mismatch (for example, my donor was +CMV and I was -CMV) and instructed if/how to manage them. You will also be instructed what symptoms to watch for and report.

I have experienced many unexpected issues following my transplant because, I believe, I was a brittle Type I long-term diabetic and all this underlying issues that had been attributed as secondary to diabetes were now jumping out of the cupboard and saying, "Me! Take care of me now!"

Since I have a pancreas only, I cannot address any issues with any other organs. I do understand that each organ has it's own issues and each person has their own individual experiences and expectations.

You have a healthy interest in your personal health. One thing I would suggest, if you are interested, is to begin journaling. Many people have found it helpful. You can expect lapses of memory throughout the process, as you will be given anesthesia and pain medications that may alter your memory functions. A journal that you keep, even in an altered state, can help you piece everything together later.

Primarily my advice (and what works for me) is to turn your will and your life over to God and trust that He will take care of things when you cannot. That underlying belief, faith and knowledge has always served me well and helped me calm myself and press on. Blessings to you and all your supporters.

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