Sixteen years ago, when I found out that I had Multiple Myeloma, I discovered that my kidneys had been severely damaged. Every version of Multiple Myeloma is a little different. Mine created an abundance of light chain proteins. They are long and skinny but not skinny enough to easily pass through the kidneys. As a result, the filter tubes of the kidneys get clogged and die. My kidneys were only operating at about 15% of their normal efficiency.Wheeling out the dialysis system
For the next 13 years, I babied them, staying well hydrated and staying away from artificial colors, soda, and alcohol. Initially, they recovered slightly eventually getting back to 33% efficiency, but I could never get them any better. Because I never really had extended periods of remission of the cancer, the kidneys could never recover and gradually worsened. Then 2 ½ years ago I contracted Rotavirus and my kidneys finally gave up. At the time, it looked like I would be tied to a dialysis machine for the rest of my life.
The last dialysis treatment |
After dozens of tests and meetings, I was finally approved for the transplant in September. We were then off to the races. After Julia was approved to donate her kidney to me, we were able to schedule the operations in November.
For the last two weeks, we have been taking it easy around the house. Justin and Jason were our babysitters around the clock for the first 10 days. We would not have been able to do this without them. We are slowly getting better. Julia has had more issues than I have probably because they had to make 8 incisions due to scar tissue. She has good days and bad days. I have been far luckier as I only had one incision and am a little better each day.
I have been getting blood tests three times a week as they adjust my anti-rejection meds. Immediately after the surgery, my hemoglobin dropped significantly, and I had to get a transfusion eventually. However, today my hemoglobin was up for the third straight test. The kidney seems to like its new surroundings and is helping the body create more blood. Things are definitely looking up.
So today was the official end to my dialysis adventure as US Renal picked up their equipment and returned it to the warehouse. Not sure I would have made it this far if I had to do my dialysis in-center. The ability to do it at home was a Godsend. Julia was more than my nurse, she was my rock. And then on top of it all, she gave me a kidney. How lucky am I?
So happy for you both! Prayers continue as you recover and gain strength! ❤️ Rita Jarvis
ReplyDeleteAwesome JC
ReplyDeleteCheering you both on from afar and keeping you guys in my prayers. It's amazing to watch your journey over the years and to see God's faithfulness through it all! You've come such a long way!
ReplyDelete^ ^ Lyndsay (Robertson) Clark ^ ^
ReplyDeleteJulia, happy to hear this great news and great ending. Your love for your husband is truly admirable! Wishing you & your fam all the best ❤️
ReplyDeleteThat is wonderful news! So happy to hear this. Praying you both continue to heal!
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