Post-transplant tips & tricks from families who ’ve been through it

Transplant recipients typically feel stronger and more energetic following transplant recovery. But returning to regular activities, sports and travel can be challenging. A few “transplant moms,” who’ve already been through the experience, share their wisdom and advice. Charlene, mom to Brent, 19, liver transplant recipient Planning a first vacation post-transplant is easier said than done. Charlene Newhall knows. And, she has a handful of advice, following a family summer trip to Arizona from their home in Maine: Work with your pharmacy to ensure you have enough medications. Research the closest major hospitals. “I was shocked to learn that two of the labs I called didn’t even check immunosuppressant levels.” Know your insurance coverage. “If we needed labs or anything medical we knew it would be out of pocket as our insurance is MaineCare. It’s a risk we took and we were prepared!” Call your transplant team to help you schedule immunosuppressants accordingly. “If there was one thing I stressed about, it was the time change with the dosing since Arizona is three hours behind us.” Prepare for your flight. “Masks are very important when flying. I was shocked at how many people flew sick. I wiped everything down on the plane with Lysol wipes before we sat down.” Don’t overly stress. “Make your vacation about memories, not about medical issues.” Janet, mom to Dean, 2, heart transplant recipient Building up Dean’s stamina and end...
Source: Thrive, Children's Hospital Boston - Category: Pediatrics Authors: Tags: Health & Wellness Parenting heart transplant Heart transplant program kidney transplant Kidney Transplant Program Liver transplant Liver Transplant Program Pediatric Transplant Center (PTC) Source Type: news