My Journey as a Heart Transplant Patient
I was born with a congenital heart defect and throughout my childhood I had surgeries, the last one being when I was about 11 or 12. It was called a Fontaine procedure and basically it’s when the insides of the heart are rerouted so that it can pump blood to the lungs a little easier.
Developing a Flutter
As an adult, I developed what is called a flutter, which is similar to atrial fibrillation. When the heart rate gets too high, it can cause a person to pass out. Usually, a person is taken to the hospital and they get what is called a cardioversion, which is essentially a shock to the heart to bring it back into a normal rhythm. This came with the need for medication.
The Need for a Heart Transplant
Unfortunately, my condition has gotten worse over the years and I am now at the point where I need a heart transplant. On April 18th, UPMC Hospital approved the transplant and my insurance confirmed everything.
My Transplant Journey
I’m officially listed for a transplant due to a congenital heart defect. Most of my medical history is at West Virginia University Medical Center, until they referred me to UPMC, one of the best transplant teams and closest to me.
Testing and Traveling
I’ve been through stress tests, blood draws, x-rays, MRIs, CTS, heart caps, inner jugular, and liver biopsies. The surgery I had previously starts to scar up my liver, so they want to make sure I don’t need a heart and a liver transplant. I’m fortunate so far, but I’m hoping I don’t have to wait too long for a heart.
Risk Factors
My situation with the previous surgeries and the proteins my body has developed as a defense mechanism make my case a little more high risk. Having a transplant means I can’t tamper with it or my body may reject it, making it even more complex.
The Mental and Physical Struggles of Transplant Patients
Transplant patients often face a unique set of mental and physical struggles. This article will explore the issues they face and how to cope with them.
Mental Struggles
The uncertainty of not knowing what will happen next is a common mental struggle for transplant patients. Will they receive a transplant in the next four months or a year? Will they be blessed and get something by the end of the summer? This lack of certainty can be very difficult to deal with.
Another mental struggle is the feeling of defeat when they are unable to do things they used to do. This can be especially difficult when they are having a bad day and are experiencing shortness of breath.
Physical Struggles
The physical struggles of transplant patients can be just as difficult as the mental struggles. They may experience shortness of breath, fatigue, and other physical symptoms. These can be difficult to cope with, but it is important to remember that it is a normal part of the process.
The first year after a transplant is especially critical, as the patient may need a heart and liver transplant if the wait is too long. Right now, many patients are doing well, but it is important to be aware of the potential risks.
Transplant patients face a unique set of mental and physical struggles, but with the right support and care, they can cope with them and lead a healthy and fulfilling life.
Living with a Transplanted Heart
Having a transplanted heart is not like having a kidney or something similar. While the chances of success are better than other transplants, it is still a major undertaking. It requires a lot of emotional and physical effort to make sure the transplant is successful.
The Emotional Rollercoaster
The process of getting a transplant is an emotional rollercoaster. There are times of joy, sadness, anger, and a range of other emotions. It is important to be aware of these emotions and how they can affect the success of the transplant.
Adapting to a New Lifestyle
With a transplanted heart, it is important to adapt to a new lifestyle. Exercises that were once possible may no longer be doable. Instead, it is important to focus on calisthenics and walking. It is also important to plan walks carefully to avoid hills and steps.
Family Support
Having a strong support system is essential for someone with a transplanted heart. Family members can provide the motivation and encouragement needed to stay on track and take care of oneself. For many, having a six year old child is a major source of motivation.
Introduction to Heart Transplants
My goal is to keep up with my friends and live a full life. I want to make it to at least a hundred, and see my son grow up. I want to use my experience to help people understand heart transplants and the process involved.
What is a Heart Transplant?
A heart transplant is a procedure where a person’s diseased heart is replaced with a healthy donor heart. It is a complex and difficult process, and many people don’t know enough about it.
The Need for Awareness
People born with heart conditions need to be aware of the process and what to expect. They need to have access to information that is easy to understand, and a voice to help explain what they may not understand from a doctor.
I hope that my story will help others understand heart transplants and the process involved. I am committed to raising awareness and providing support to those who need it.
