Liver transplant - Let's support each other

Posted by lmctif @lmctif, Oct 29, 2018

What topics do people who are waiting for a liver transplant want to talk about? Who has had a liver transplant and wants to talk about?

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Transplants Support Group.

@kimestes

I just got a message this morning that my meld score is not high enough. If course they want me to quit smoking and gain more weight and muscle mass. Smoking is going to be the worst to quit by far!

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In addition to quitting smoking, you will need to practice patience as your MELD will dictate when you can receive a transplant. Focus on gaining the weight & continue your exercise program for sure. You already know the benefits from not smoking. Quitting can literally save your life. It may take a while for your MELD score to get you listed & then it can take a while before you get transplanted. Stay strong & stay positive. We are all here to support you & cheer you on!! xoxo

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@kimestes

I just got a message this morning that my meld score is not high enough. If course they want me to quit smoking and gain more weight and muscle mass. Smoking is going to be the worst to quit by far!

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This would be a good time to stop smoking. You would probably eat more and gain weight.
I did not have that bad habit so I am not as sympathetic as others. You can do it!!! Give your body the help it needs to get well.

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@stella25

@kimestes Sounds like you are doing the right things Kim! Keep up the good work. Have you been evaluated & waitlisted for liver transplant?

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I just got a message this morning that my meld score is not high enough. If course they want me to quit smoking and gain more weight and muscle mass. Smoking is going to be the worst to quit by far!

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@rosemarya

@sue6175, Welcome to Mayo Connect. I always consider it an honor to meet fellow transplant recipient. I look forward to hearing more about your experience. On Connect, we, the patients are able to support and encourage others who are like ourselves.

I received my liver and kidney transplant at Mayo Rochester in 2009 for PSC (Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis). I joined Connect because I wanted to meet others who were organ transplant recipients. I have not been disappointed because I have gained much information and inspiration everyone who has entered any of our transplant discussion groups.

@sue6175, How did you learn that you needed a transplant? What was it like for you with an RN background?

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Having the medical background was a help. Post transplant meds were a challenge but we got through it!!! My husband was afraid he was going to kill me!!

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@rosemarya

@racing212, Being tired and worn out are symptoms of liver disease. I can remember when I felt so tired and worn out that I wanted to just lie on the couch and not move because I did not have the energy to do anything. Trust me when I say that I know how you must be feeling. If I had a magic wand, I would wave it right now.
Racing212, Are you able to eat anything? Are you remembering to stay hydrated?

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Yes, the profound tiredness is overwhelming. You have to eat and drink. You do not feel like it but you must. A little bit but frequently. I was amazed at how quickly I started eating after my transplant! What an amazing gift!

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@racing212

Very tired and wore out

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@racing212, Being tired and worn out are symptoms of liver disease. I can remember when I felt so tired and worn out that I wanted to just lie on the couch and not move because I did not have the energy to do anything. Trust me when I say that I know how you must be feeling. If I had a magic wand, I would wave it right now.
Racing212, Are you able to eat anything? Are you remembering to stay hydrated?

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In reply to @racing212 "Yes" + (show)
@racing212

@racing212, My experience tells me that you are going to be in the place for the best of care. I have had experience with both the liver and with the kidney transplant departments.
If you have any questions, remember that we are here on Connect.
How have you been feeling?

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@racing212

I go there February 7-10 for follow up

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@racing212, I send my wishes for a safe trip, and for clear skies as you travel to Mayo. I hope that you will have a good follow-up.
If my memory serves me correctly, you will be also getting an update on your kidney status, is that correct?

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