Living Donors Online Message Board
Living Donation Discussion and News => Living Donation Forum => Topic started by: PhilHoover on August 25, 2011, 05:08:12 AM
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Advice that I want to offer those who are contemplating being an organ donor (kidney, or otherwise); and for those who will become donors in the near future:
1) ASK QUESTIONS...In this case, there are no DUMB QUESTIONS---just some "dumb" people who refuse to ask questions they should be asking NOW "before the fact" instead of whining after their surgery. ASK QUESTIONS and keep asking until you get answers that you can validate/verify.
Now...let's just add to the list...go ahead, it's your turn....
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1.I would suggest learning all you can about GFR and being sure of your pre donation level being 80 or above (the standand in Canada and the UK but not the US).
Ignore extreme pro or con advise, think for yourself. Rob Halverson
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{If you're taking suggestions from those still pre-surgery...}
Maybe especially for non-directed donors, the screening/approval process can take a long time. Plus, don't necessarily flip out over a given bad lab value: there's a decent chance the next test will show up normal.
Good luck, Snoopy
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In hindsite, of course, it might be a good idea to contact a non-affiliated neuphologist and have a sit down consult with them. They have nothing to gain or lose and might give some added insight. Even your family doctor is a good place to start, then they can give you a referral to a specialist. Run your own tests for GFR ahead of time before testing. Your insurance should cover that once a year as part of a comprehensive physical.
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Research your tests ahead, things your doing to be able to donate such as losing weight could affect the results of some tests. I found this out on my own and had to slow down my exercise and supplements.