To vaccinate or not to vaccinate? That is the question.

I also respect everyone’s right to make their own decision based on their circumstances. You said you had COVID and it wasn’t that bad. Are you also an organ transplant recipient?

Yes I've had 4 kidney transplants, now don't get me wrong, this virus is very weird....but I didn't have hardly any issues as a matter of fact I would have never known, that I had the virus. I went to the ER with a bladder infection, and they did an abdominal CT, and saw some ground glass opacities on the bottom of my lungs when they made their pass and so they did the COVID test and I was positive.

@ess77 I did read somewhere that if you have recent rejection you should not have the vaccine for a while.
JK

Thank you for sharing this. While I will continue to be extremely careful and do plan to get the vaccination at least I know that contracting COVID isn’t an automatic death sentence for transplant recipients on immunosuppressants. I also understand that it’s different for everyone.

@ess77- This certainly makes sense. Any chance of finding the source for this?

@ca426 - Dr. Poland, of Mayo Clinic has encouraged people who have had COVID-19 to still get the vaccines because it is unknown how long your antibodies will last. I encourage you to have a talk with your doctor about this. Aside from this, after 4 kidney transplants, it might be advisable not to get the vaccines.

In making your decision have you discussed this with your family and transplant doctor? DO you think that where the virus came from has anything to do with the vaccine?

@kcbemetoo, Happy 3 yr anniversary! It is a bright spot worthy of celebrating! Thanks for the reminder that good things are happening in the midst of these hard times. I am going on 12 years with my transplanted liver and kidney. Whenever I read that someone is having their anniversary, I smile as I remember my big day and I whisper a prayer of thanks for my deceased donor and for the transplant team at Mayo Rochester who made it happen.

kcbemetoo, I want to invite you to a discussion that I started where we can share our transplant stories, get to know others, and encourage others by sharing our experiences. Each one of us has a unique story. We want to hear more about your experience and what organ you have received.
- Organ Donation and Transplant: What is Your story? -click on the following link -
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/organ-donation-and-transplant-what-is-your-story/

kcbemetoo, Amen! Congratulations on your anniversary! That's a biggie...Bless you and I love the imeage and feeling I'm wrapped in His loving arms. Such a peaceful and safe feeling of love......Elizabeth

Well, my friend is scored at 2. Prednisone increased, maybe other drugs, don't know. He feels better now, so hopefully hel'll get through this and move ahead! He's a trouper! Blessings, Elizabeth

Hello, wildcat. When were you at St. Paul? I have a deep love for your accent....it's very lovely, melodic, pleasant. Although, I must say at this time in my life I don't understand a fast talking anyone, but you add your beautiful accent and I'm lost! Still begin with my own version of the Scottish accent, tho.

Yes, I think most of the country, most Americans, and our friends overseas, are very sad today. We have so much to celebrate....the advances re virus, including vaccines and the growth in effective treatments. I may or may not like the election or the results, but there is no excuse for violence in this country. We work so well when we work as a country, for the country. The last years have been tough for us all, I think. Add to that 2020 and WOW!

But, no reason for violence. I was horrified this summer as I watched the violence throughout our country. Yesterday was horrifying.

But, today is relatively quiet. I pray God will put his hand on us all, give us calm and understanding and guide us all to a better year.
Blessings to you! Elizabeth