Thursday, November 4, 2010

What is a Living Donor?

First of all let me tell you what a wonderful and amazing organ the liver is. It has the capability of regenerating itself if injured or even in the case where part of it has to be removed surgically. Yes - that means that if I am able to donate half of my liver to Don, each piece will re-grow back to full size with in 4 MONTHS!! Wow - that just astounds me every time I think about it! Seemingly, the only thing the liver cannot recover from is cirrhosis, which is what Don has. I found these diagrams to help everyone understand exactly what we are talking about... and which part of my liver will go into Don.












The operation, at least my part of it takes about 4-5 hours. Don's will take a bit longer. We will both be in intensive care for at least 1 day, followed by a regular room for several days afterwards. My stay should be 4-7 days, while Don may need to stay up to 2 weeks. It would be great if we could be in the same room, but I am not sure if that would be allowed or not.












Long term success rate for donor livers via the current transplant program is approximately 65%...however, that rate rises to over 90% for live donor recipients!














Our appointment is tomorrow with the transplant surgeon. Honestly, the only concern I have is the difference in our weight... but that margin can easily be narrowed if it needs to be!

6 comments:

Janice Grinyer said...

will be praying for you both, and the surgeon as well, as you all discuss the possibilities...

Its amazing when God pulls back the curtain of darkness just a little at a time so we can see the path...

Entertaining Women said...

I pray for the Lord's protection for both of you as you walk this journey, in the name of Jesus, my sweet master, lover of my ragged soul. Amen. Thank you for stopping by my post of tablescapes. Please, come visit any time. Cherry Kay

a quiet life said...

i hope everything goes well for you too, another blog i follow has a wonderful success story, check it out~

http://chocolateandcroissants.blogspot.com/2010/11/pea-soup-and-organ-donations.html

Yellow Rose Arbor said...

Oh, my! This is wonderful! I admire you for what you are doing for your man! I would do the same! I've said a prayer for you both, and for the team of doctors.

Try to keep us updated!

God Bless.

Katherine

Jenny @ Simcoe Street said...

You are both in my thoughts and prayers and I'm sending my very best wishes your way.
Jenny
www.simcoestreet.blogspot.com

Patrinas Pencil said...

This is amazing. I had heard that the liver is an amazing organ. Take care of yourself and you have lots of prayers going up in your and Don's behalf. God is faithful and He will be right there in the middle of you both. How cool is this, you get to give part of your liver to save your husband. I think that is way cool.


God bless you both
praying fervently :)

patrina <")>><
warrior bride in boots