Transplant Chronicles Spring 2011

A Kidney That Looks Like Me: Is a New Kidney Allocation System in Our Future?

By Jack Fassnacht, kidney transplant recipient; Past Chair - NKF transAction Council Executive Committee

A basic problem with the present system for allocating deceased donor (DD) kidneys is the persistent shortage of kidneys from donors. As a result, waiting times for a DD kidney can last years. Recently, the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) and the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN) published for public comment a document that describes possible revisions to the kidney allocation system. Learn more about these potential changes here.

Does the New Kidney Allocation Concept Discriminate Against Older Candidates?

By Jack Fassnacht, kidney transplant recipient; Past Chair – NKF transAction Council Executive Committee

Many people are concerned that the new kidney allocation system, if adopted, would discriminate against older transplant candidates. But here are four reasons not to worry if you are an older candidate on the kidney transplant waiting list, and perhaps even to be encouraged.

Is Living Kidney Donation Threatened by a New Allocation Concept?

By Doug Penrod, RN, Transplant Nurse Coordinator

The revised kidney allocation concept document recently released has created discussion about the potential effects on living donation (LD). It does not appear the kidney allocation system concept, as currently presented, would have any significant impact on LD transplantation. What is more concerning is the lack of sustained growth in DD transplants and the decline in LD transplants. Click here for more on the impact of a new kidney allocation system on live donation.

Golf Gave me Back my Confidence

By Jack Silverstein

Life–long diabetes took its toll on Jack Silverstein. He lost his eyesight, was confined to a wheelchair, and lost his kidney function. But after a successful kidney/pancreas/bone marrow transplant, Jack regained his sight and was eventually able to walk. He took up golf to improve his strength and balance–and discovered a second chance at life. Read Jack’s inspiring true story here.

The National Living Donor Assistance Center (NLDAC)

by Lora Wilson

Many potential living donors perceive travel costs to be an insurmountable obstacle on their path toward donation. In an attempt to bridge the distance between donor and recipient, the National Living Donor Assistance Center (NLDAC) offers needs–based travel grants. NLDAC grants can transform roadblocks into gateways of opportunity for those that qualify. Click here for more information on this life–saving program.

National Donor Recognition Ceremony

Have you been thinking about your deceased or living donor and the gift of love, gift of life? Save the Date: 12th National Donor Recognition Ceremony Sunday, July 17, 2011 from 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm Renaissance Washington, DC Downtown Hotel, Washington, D.C. Learn more

What You Can Do While Waiting for
“The Call”

By Danielle Peabody, LICSW and Janelle Gonyea, RD, LD

Waiting for your organ transplant can be a daunting and trying time. Your health may be declining and your life may feel like it’s been put on hold. While you are waiting, there are things you can do to stay as healthy as possible and prepare yourself for the big day. For important tips on how to help yourself physically, mentally and spiritually click here.

Save 25% and Stay Dry in April

Sing in the rain this April as you protect yourself from the heavy showers with this durable and attractive NKF umbrella from the “Love Your Kidneys” collection. Use promo code TC411 at checkout to save 25% on every item in the NKF online store.

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For past issues of Transplant Chronicles please visit the archive.

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