@kandyh, I am a liver and a kidney transplant recipient. I am responding in response to your question: "Do most kidney transplant recipients live a normal life once they recover from the surgery." I don't know statistics for 'most' kidney transplant recipients, however I can assure you that this (me)recipient is living a normal healthy life. My kidney failure came on suddenly while I was waiting for my liver transplant. I needed emergency dialysis followed by outpatient dialysis until I received my transplant in 2009 at Mayo Rochester. Both of my organs began to function immediately, and I did not require anymore dialysis. My recovery was textbook perfect. I remember the being able to enjoy favorite foods again without the rigid restrictions. And the freedom from 3 lost days each week with morning dialysis and afternoon naps, was a blessing beyond description. I am aware that each patient has a different experience, and this is mine. I hope it gives you a hint of what is possible.

Kandyh, Have you been advised that a transplant could be in your future? Have you consulted with a kidney transplant nephrologist yet?