Three Weeks

Three weeks ago today. So much has happened and changed in that short stretch of time. It's overwhelming when I think about it, in a wonderful way.

My scheduled follow-up with one of the surgeons was today. My lab work continues to be very good. One of my anti-rejection drugs is being cut back as my levels have gotten higher than they like. Blood pressure is within the range they want; I have to watch to catch if it goes lower. They are encouraging me to eat most of the things I had to cut back due to my impaired kidney function prior to surgery, at least in moderation. That may help with the residual swelling in my ankles and feet which hasn't gone away, and to moderate my bp.

My heart rate is running high. That has been true for quite a while, even long before the transplant. Some of it may be due to a combination of factors connected to the transplant and medications and diet, but they want to be sure. They did an EKG today and gave me a small dose of medication to see if that helps. The surgeon is going to consult with my transplant nephrologist to see whether they need to do further testing or a referral to a cardiologist.

I'm getting around really well. There is still some discomfort at the surgery site, but often I'm not even aware of it. I use a pedometer and try to accumulate about 2 miles/day to stay active and get some conditioning back. Sometimes that wears me out, so I ease off the next day. I am very careful about not doing anything I'm not supposed to do, like lifting.

If you've seen the fashion shoot from Saturday, you've got a good image of how I have to dress to be outside. I've long covered up from the sun due to my natural propensity to skin cancer (fair skin, freckles, blue eyes, reddish hair - well, that's what it used to be...). I have to be even more careful now that I'm on the anti-rejection drugs. Thus the long sleeves and pants, hat, gloves. The mask comes into play because I have to avoid potential infectious agents that are stirred up by yard and garden work. In addition, I'm not supposed to actually do any yard or garden work. I understand and comply, but it's hard when there's so much to do, and the weather is so nice these days. Fortunately we have some great friends who are more than willing to help out.

The few people who have seen me in person have all commented on how good I look and how much better than prior to the transplant. That's good to hear and confirms what I already know, that I feel great. There still is reason for some caution in drawing final conclusions due to meds I'm on, but so far my feeling of well-being hasn't changed as the meds have tapered down. I'm happy and healthy and so, so grateful.