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Transplant Wait Time
My husband is going to Mayo for a liver transplant. Whenever this whole process started, we tried to do our research to find out average wait times, etc but could not find anything. Hopefully this helps someone out by giving them a little info.
My husband has been evaluated to be put on the liver transplant list for 11 months. He started with a 19 MELD score. Luckily, it has gone down to 14 during this time so we’re not in dire need at the moment. He’s had many many many appointments & blood draws during this time. He got many CT scans, MRIs, blood draws, general Dr appointments, nurse appointments, etc.
He also had many ED appointments during this time, ranging from a heart catheter procedure, to electrolyte imbalances, as well as many other issues. The team wanted to make sure that any and all issues be taken care of during this time.
He was just approved for a transplant 3 days ago. They told him that he can be on the list anywhere from one day to one year, depending on availability & matching criteria. Additionally, he has to be ready to walk out the door in minutes. We have a go bag ready & he has to take his phone everywhere he goes.
Hope this helps people that are just starting this process. I know this whole process is different for everyone but it gives an idea of what to expect. It can be discouraging at times but looking back, it’s all water under the bridge. The end result cancels out all of the discouragement. Good luck in your journey.
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Full liver transplant Mayo AZ 1.5 years ago. Was told could be 6 months , could be 2 years. Talked to a Mayo nurse whose aunt was on the approved waiting list 6 years. My meld was below 20. I was called with a false alarm after 2 weeks (it sounds like everyone gets one of those or a dry run). Then for real after 18 days. Much shorter than expected and than most folks but from talking to people who had liver transplants when I was there and since it seems like many within 3 - 4 months. I was told blood type was important. Mine could help or hurt me. Fewer livers but not as many folks needing the blood type. They of course don't know for sure but I would ask if your husbands might make it sooner or longer wait . Best of luck. Prayers up for your husband. (---:
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5 ReactionsThanks for sharing, both of you. Heading for what will hopefully be my last barrage of tests next week, ending in a decision (or maybe deferral?). I’ll share what I learn with the community.
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5 ReactionsMy meld was in the 30s I waited 3 months because I was near death, everyone is different I had a extreme case ICU for 6 months 40 blood transfusions and the list goes on and on good luck with your surgery and recovery ❤️🩹
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4 ReactionsMy name is Jaime… I am a patient at Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville Florida… I have been on the transplant waitlist since 12/24… I received a call May 21, 2025 saying they had a liver for me and would call back to let me know when to head to the clinic… I live 20 minutes away… Unfortunately, that liver did not work out for me… My MELD stayed around 23-25.. Then, I found out they terminated my Medicaid… So, I was placed as inactive for a month until I could get that straightened out… July 1st my new insurance kicked in and within a week I was back as active on the list… I am now waiting for a call… My MELD 2 weeks ago was 22.. I go back on July 30 for Echo, Labs, Stress Test, and Endoscopy… So, I am very anxious to see what my MELD will be… All in all, I feel good… Other than itching hands and feet and swollen feet… I think waiting is the worst… And I don’t know if my MELD will continue you drop or what… So, that doesn’t help.. Patience is key… Any thoughts or advice??
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2 ReactionsHi Jamie. How stressful not only having the life or death liver issues but the insurance stuff too. If it's any comfort I know my meld was under 20 when I got the call. My wife and I have talked to others who received new livers with melds in that range. They say a lowering meld is a good thing for your overall health. I am so glad you are feeling well and that the insurance worked out ! Stressful but it helped me to be thankful that I made the list when most folks don't , I live in the US rather than another part of the world without access and Mayo who is the best will be doing the work. Patience is hard but better waiting than a "No". Hang in there ! (---: Prayers up
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2 ReactionsDear Jamie,
I understand your feelings, the main thing is that you got back the health insurance, I kine that very soon you will receive your liver transplant. Sending you my best wishes, believe and pray, your miracle is on it way !!!! 😘🙏🏻🌹
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