I'LL TAKE THAT WITH 'MAYO' PLEASE

The first of three ALL-DAY consultations yesterday at the world-renown Mayo Clinic in Phoenix. Good friend, Maxine Billingsley (one of the 'Cancun Chiquitas') went along as an extra pair of ears/eyes and moral support. We began at 10 am with Dr Hamawi, a nephrologist/kidney transplant specialist. He took my medical history, did a brief exam & discussed and answered our questions. He told us I'm probably one of the 30% who didn't have an 'event' that caused this kidney to fail. Since I'm the only family member (that I know of) with renal failure, we may never know how I got so lucky!
(but I can handle it!) After dr. Hamawi we had time for lunch, which we enjoyed in the beautiful sunshine out on the patio. My next appt was with Sharon Kennedy, of financial services. Following that, 1 pm was Julie Bates, Transplant Social worker, who had a large questionaire with 'probing' questions as to my readiness to have this procedure, mentally, physically & emotionally. Plus she further delved into our financial preparedness. There have been many who have been turned away, not because they can't afford the surgery, BUT because they can't afford the anti-rejection meds you must take the rest of your life. There are three anti-rej. meds, they cost $1500.00, $1562.00 & $960.00 each PER MONTH!!! Yes, insurance pays some, but even with their help it's going to be a huge burden. Not sure yet, how we'll resolve this.

Following all these appt's, we headed home (it's 70 miles each way) to be on time with my local nephrologist, Dr. Qardi. We made it on time, BUT he wasn't 'on time'! So we were running VERY late to set up our empty nester's FHE potluck. All was well in the end tho since many others lent helping hands making our St Pat's dinner fun!

So what's the time-line for the transplant? Could be as soon as 3 months but more likely 4-5 months; and that's if I have a compatible donor. If I have to be put on the 'list', it could be years!
They take one donor applicant at a time, do a phone screening interview. If that donor isn't appropriate, we move to the next one, etc. You get the idea. Donors don't have to be blood relatives or even a perfect blood type match....of course, the more matches the better. It's quite complex. Donors usually leave the hospital in a couple of days and need to 'take it easy' for a week or so (no real heavy lifting, etc.) But are back to normal very quickly.

My case will now be reviewed by a large panel of docs and specialists to move me forward in the process. I will receive a call from them with that info in probably 2 weeks. I'll let you all know when I know more. Thank you for all the prayers and fasting, I KNOW it helps and will give me strength for all that is ahead.

I must say I am VERY impressed with the Mayo Clinic. They are very organized, they were on time (even early) for my appts and very nice and forthcoming with answers & information. Now I know why I'm here in Arizona! Couldn't be a better hospital for this procedure.

Keep the prayers going and fingers crossed that they accept me as a patient and that we can figure out a way to pay for these meds!