Liquid Diets & Pre Op

... just sayin', liquid diets suck.

The Pre Op appointment went better than the liquid diet. It was fairly straight forward -- they took blood one last time and left me with a souvenir armband. The blood was for some last testing, and the armback identifies my blood, in case I need a transfusion. I'm glad they are taking care of every last scenario, but it makes you remember the risk involved.

I met my surgeon, Dr. Pollinger. He was very friendly and answered all of my questions. He even gave me a big hug at the end and said thank you for doing this. That's the attitude I've had from everyone. Most of the time, you go to the doctor or get a surgery because you are sick. This is about the only time I can imagine that you are volunteering to put yourself into harm's way medically, to help someone else.

I also met with a nutritionist, the social worker, the pharmacist and the outpatient nurse that will be available to me during my recovery at home.

The strangest part was with the surgeon, when he asked me a question -- if something should happen and Howard can't accept the transplant on the operating table, do you still want to donate? Thank goodness my living donor, Nancy, had prepped me for this question!  When Nancy mentioned it this morning, my jaw dropped. I can't imagine saying no at this point. I still think doing a blind donation would be strange, but I've gotten this far -- if something were to happen with Howard, someone is getting that damned kidney!

So here I am, appointments done. Nancy told me today would be a marathon, with my emotions going through every possible iteration. They have. Tonight I have chosen to just be alone and hibernate. I'll get what rest I can, and build up strength for tomorrow.