Life After Kidney Transplant

It is important to recognize that a transplant is more than a single surgical event. A successful transplant is a group effort that requires a lifetime commitment by the patient to adhere to a healthy lifestyle and receive ongoing medical care.

Patients will need to:

• Take immunosuppressive drugs for the rest of their lives
• Maintain proper weight and blood pressure
• Eat a diet low in cholesterol and sugar
• Forego smoking and alcohol

We’re here to help patients and their caregivers succeed. We make sure patients are ready for home care and offer a support group for ongoing emotional support. Our team is here to provide expertise, support, and information throughout a patient’s treatment. That includes regular check in appointments, which help evaluate how well the patient's body is adjusting to the new kidney. Bloodwork will be taken, and medications may be changed.

Transplant Support Group

The Transplant Support Group meets virtually on the 3rd Wednesday of each month from noon-1 p.m. for transplant patients and their families to share experiences. This group (led by a social worker) provides an emotionally supportive atmosphere in which attendees can assist each other in coping with the various issues that arise before and after transplantation. It also provides information on topics of special interest to transplant patients and their families. For example, the dietitian may conduct a group discussion on nutritional information.

For more information about the Transplant Support Group, contact Stacy Franz at 214-645-5505.