liver transplant

[dcmurphy]

I am 48 yrs. old and waiting for a full liver transplant due to alcoholic cirrhosis. I would be interested in hearing from anyone (pre- or post transplant) who would share their thoughts. I feel I've gained alot of knowledge through printed literature and medical websites butI haven't been able to talk to alot of people going through the same experiences.

Thanks!

[dcmurphy]

I have just completed evaluation after three long months of complications, hospitalizations, and testing. After all that, I wonder how long it will take and try not to get impatient. How does he cope with the wait without going bonkers?! Best of luck to him.

[This message has been edited by moderator3 (edited 04-23-2002).]

[dcmurphy]

The first indication something was seriously wrong was vomiting alot of blood at Christmas culminating in encephalopathic symptoms by New Year's. (I was basically out of my head talking weird stuff, according to my wife.) I had three varices in my digestive tract which were repaired. I have ascites which I have drained every 2-3 weeks along with albumin infusions - next session is Wednesday. Usually end up giving 4-8 liters of fluid. I let it go too long once and actually blew a hole in my "bellybutton", which had herniated from earlier swelling - what a mess! The worst part, however, is the waiting, as you said. I can stay busy most of the time to keep my mind off of things with household chores and the like, plus I'm getting into some volunteer work at a rehab center to try to help other people. Sleeping at night, though, is hard as you can tell by the times on my postings. Everything comes crashing in when the house gets quiet!

[This message has been edited by dcmurphy (edited 04-23-2002).]



[This message has been edited by moderator3 (edited 04-23-2002).]