Dear folks: I returned home yesterday, just two days after donating my right kidney as a non-directed donor. I have to admit, I was a little nervous before the whole thing, but it went so much better than I could have ever imagined. It has been a life changing event. I was feeling a bit "depressed" before driving to UVA Thursday. Some family members thought I might be having second thoughts, but it wasn't that at all. I wanted to donate more than anything. I was explaining the sadness to be like going through a pregnancy, giving birth, but not being allowed to see the child. Well, as you may have read, God had a different plan. UVA told the recipient that I didn't want to meet them. (A total lie. I told UVA I would love to meet them if they were interested) I was told I had to wait one year, then the recipient contacts me. Anyhow, while going over pre-surgery financial into, the lady at the desk mentioned that my recipient was in the waiting room and that HE wanted to meet me. So, the rest is history. It was such a moving experience. I know that it helped in his as well as my recovery.
I had a very difficult time waking up from anesthesia (4 hours in recovery) -then nausea and vomiting that night. After that, I have had little pain and have felt great. A little sore at times. My gut still isn't working. Hoping it will wake up soon.
Well, I could go on for hours. I have some really cool pictures of the kidney, the recipient and more. If anyone wants to facebook me, my name is Jody Woodward. Just message me and let me know you are from LDO.
Thanks so much for answering my questions and being such a support. This site really helped me. Thanks Dr. Freeman for being my pal. I will enjoy being in the club. Jody
Topic: Donated 3 days ago. Everything went great. (Read 6975 times)