Kidney Transplant - Sam Willis - Greg Nelson

Kidney Transplant | Sam Willis | Greg Nelson

In early January, I received a totally unexpected phone call from the transplant team, stating that we needed to schedule the procedure ASAP. Unexpected because my head was programmed to push this off until a point where I had significant symptoms, and since I continue to feel good, this call made no sense to me. In fact, I might even say I was irritated by the change in direction.

After several appointments and deliberation, it was determined that I’m in the ‘Sweet Spot’. Meaning that my GFR of now 14 has me well into the danger zone, I’m in otherwise good health, and I have a live donor. The risks of continuing in the holding pattern, outweighs the benefits of moving forward now. So, after processing that for a few weeks, Sam and I aligned on moving forward. The question now, is when.

If you would please put Sam and the medical staff at UM on your prayer list for surgery day: This Thursday, April 10th, that would be greatly appreciated.

Please also have our family members/caretakers on your list as Lauren/Jeff and Steph/Ben will be stepping up to take care of Sam and I when we are discharged.

If you are wanting to do something that has a more direct impact for Sam and me, please consider a donation to the National Kidney Foundation. Go Fund Me proceeds can be marked 'anonymous’ if you prefer to fly under the radar. We will use these funds to cover hotel rooms this week for our family, perhaps some meals during the 2-3 months of recovery and if there are any leftover funds, I will put these to good work in a responsible/creative way.

Thank you for your compassion and encouragement over the past year. This has meant so much to me personally, and my family.

Life is great!

Greg Nelson