The transplant is exactly 4 weeks today, and I’ve started making some lists..
Things to take Phil include a portable chess set (he likes beating me) and a magic set so I can perform tricks for him when I’m discharged. We’ve got a netbook for Chris, and have loaded skype onto it and taught him how to use it (he’s going to be living with another family for a while). A new box of books for both of them arrived yesterday. Must remember to pack their favourite soft toys and some lego.
I’ve bought a mifi device for Anne so she has got internet access and Phil can watch CBBC on his ipod at the same time. I’ve got a dongle for my laptop plus my iphone, and have been advised to pack a small cushion as apparently it helps when going to the toilet after the op. Will buy some elasticated trousers so I don’t need a belt, and pack easy-to-pull-on clothes.
Any good ideas for other stuff we should all have with us??! Suggestions welcome.
our kid needs a kidney 
I downloaded some films & TV series from iTunes to watch while in hospital and took a well stocked kindle. I watched & read a lot after my first op, not so much for the first few days after my recent one as I was more tired, but it was really good to have them there for when I was ready. Be prepared to be tired and not up to doing anything too strenuous or taxing on the brain – sounds obvious, but don’t underestimate how much the op will take out of you as well as Phil. Do you know if you will have drains in after the op? I did, and found that simple shoulder bags were a godsend for getting around without getting completely tangled up (well, they reduced the tangle factor, don’t think anything can make it go away!). My bags were homemade and if they’d be of use, I can make you one or two as needed. I presume Phil will be hooked up to machines and less mobile, so probably not so helpful for him? I’ve been meaning to email you direct anyway, so will do that and you can let me know. Carole x
Hi Carole – thanks for this. Yes was definitely planning on ‘refreshing’ mine and Phil’s iPods. I’ll have a wound drain and catheter. Phil will have about half a dozen lines, tubes and catheters and will be in High Dependency for about a week (and may possibly be in an induced coma for a while). I’m going to download lots of mental dross for myself – it’s going to be very frustrating not being able to see Phil, do anything to help him or even really be able to communicate with him very much during that first week when we’re in our respective hospitals across town from one another. I was also thinking of possibly getting a portable DVD player for Phil so he can watch his favourite David Attenborough and Scooby Doo DVDs once he is awake and feeling up to it, although he is likely to be in a lot of discomfort for at least the first few days. Would be good to see you all down Stokes Bay or Lee again one day! Take care
My brother (60) has just donated his kidney to my son (27) and was discharged today. My son and I leave hospital tomorrow hopefully. You are giving your son the best gift possible but you will be very very tired, please allow for that. Younger children tend to bounce back more quickly, but my son was quite sore (still is) He benefited from lip salve for dry cracked lips post op, I used a fan over him for airless rooms, bendy straws for both of you, face wipes to keep cool and don’t worry if you both get really croaky voices and sore throats – it’s to do with tubes during op and oxygen after and also saline drips apparently. Will be following the progress of you, both your sons and especially your wife who has to worry about both her husband AND her son having surgery and her son who isn’t and who has to be strong and brave through it all. My thoughts and heartfelt wishes to you all.
Thanks for kind wishes and very helpful tips. Am very glad all has gone well for your brother and son. All the very best to you all.
Don’t forget the device chargers. Your wife will need to pack snacks for herself since she may not want to leave to run out for a meal. Our hospital lets parents pay $5/meal and then they can order off of the patient meal menu for “room service”. Check and see if your hospital has any similar programs.
DeeDee
KidNeedsAKidney.blogspot.com
Good advice. Thank you Dee dee!