List members, do want to be included in the profile
section?
Take a look at a sample profile.
Please e-mail me, Barry,
who has taken on the awesome responsibility of attempting to keep this web page
current.
This page was last updated 12/27/2008
Click on a member’s name to arrive at their profile.
Alan Gluck Spouse of Lisa KP Tx 2/20/95 Ventura CA
Ned Spouse of Mary KP Tx 12/99 Long Island, NY
Lisa Weinlader KP Tx 11/27/96 Madison WI
Larry Sonnenberg Passed away January 2008 Dayton Ohio
Cecilia Lewandowski KP 12-17-97 Clinton Twp. MI
Barry Bruce Ktx 11-21-96 ptx 5-31-98 Bastian, Virginia
Dave Moore KP Tx May 5, 1991, ktx 6-20-02 The Plains, Ohio
Karen Kennamer Scott KP Tx 10/12/90 Austin, Texas
William Rogers Jr. K/P TX Candidate Cape Cod, MA
Kathy Dankwort KTX 3/10/98, PTX 2/15/99 Phoenix, Arizona
Marcie Becker KPTX June 14, 1997 Sonoma County CA
Marcial&Jenny Goitia TX 4/20/99; Passed away 3/13/00 Reno NV
Lisa Barnes Not yet. Just got listed Atlanta, GA
Helen Shelley TX: March 4, 1999 Reno, Texas
Lynn Wisniewski Not yet Cleveland, Ohio
Dave G Ktx 10/28/1998 Brisbane Australia Russ Gingrey kptx 7/2/92 Silverdale, WA Lori Eckrich Transplant March 28, 2002 Sioux Falls, SD
Barry Willhight kptx 12/12/97 Snoqualmie, WA
Lori Kaye-Kirsch kptx 3/4/02 Coral Springs, FLJan Powell Passed Away 03/31/04 Winnfield, LA
Tim Lucas kptx 3/20/02; passed 12/07 Spokane, WA
Karen Weezie TX: Sept. 1999 (we hope) Valpariaso, IN
Wally Wells On the list Birmingham, Alabama
Chip Freundt tx 3/14/00 Brandon, MSWendy Wage Mann ktx 3/31/87; kptx 4/26/98 San Diego, CALori Miller pta 8/7/99 Fresno, CALinda Loh Pancreas only 12/13/00 San Francisco, CA(orig. from Hong Kong)Eric Heaton kptx 6/27/02 Elizabethton, TNMichael G. kptx 7/5-6/2002 Pineville, LAHarvey S. Transplant 8/20/2002 Evanston, IL
Donna Guillot kptx 09/12/02 LouisianaJim McGowan Waiting since 4/15/03 Aurora, ILAngela Stone Transplant 12/19/2000 Prescott Valley, AZThomas Young Transplant 4/13/2002 Phoenix, AZKen Hopkins kptx 4/9/03 Baton Rouge, LAKim Buffington Spouse (Edward)Transplant 4/19/96 Waverly, WVNancy Transplant 7/16-17/2003 Port Hueneme, CARobert D. Duran Kidney 9/6/00, Listed for pancreas Los Angeles, CABrian Simon Transplant 7/31/00 Los Angeles, CA
Lori Stevens Transplant 4/6/08 Perry, NYPamela Endo lptx 3-24-05 Agoura Hills, CAHeather Hazlett kptx 7-13-07 Waxhaw, NCKelly Pearce kptx 12-7-92, 2nd kidney 6-16-05 Greenville, SCKemp Beaty Transplant 1-1-99 Central PA
kptx home
Lisa and Alan Gluck alangluc@soca.com
Name:
Lisa and Alan Gluck
Age: Alan – 52 Lisa 42
Date of Lisa’s Transplant: 2/19/95 –UCLA (Pancreas and Kidney)
Date of 2nd Transplant – 2/20/95 –UCLA (Kidney only)
Date
of 3rd Transplant – 3/24/02 – Loma Linda University Medical Center
(Pancreas and Kidney)
Dr Shackleton, Pancreas Transplant Surgeon
Dr Rosenthal, 2nd Kidney Transplant Surgeon
Dr. Ojogho, Loma Linda ( “O” “Jo” “Ho”) – Loma Linda is a GREAT Transplant
Center
Meds: Prednisone, Prograf, Cellcept
Complications at time of transplant:
Various Autonomic Neuropathies (organs, digestive track, circulation, etc)
Neuropathy in feet, legs
20 + Laser treatments
ESRD of course
Skin Graft from (burning ankle without feeling)
Severe Digestive problems
Moody
Husband…
Time on Dialysis (first transplant): 5 months – CAPD, 1 Month Hemo
None
the second time
City/State: Ventura CA – Where we grow fruits and nuts (-:
Marital Status: Married – 8 Years (Lisa was diagnosed with Kidney
Failure when we received results of Marriage blood tests)
Children – 2 Dogs
Pets (aka Children): 4 Yr. Old Yellow Lab and 5 Yr.
Old Black Lab – and
spoiled as can be.
Profession:
Alan – To be updated….
Lisa – Teacher (retired) and “Dog Mother”
Hobbies: Cycling, Tennis, Walks on Beach, e-mail (Alan only), Working Out (Lisa
only)
Church and Diabetes Support Groups, Movies, Family, Travel, TV,
Benefits From Transplant:
No More Insulin, Unrestricted Diet, Chocolate, Much More Energy, more
confident and outgoing, personal freedom, no more Laser Treatments, Feel
pain in feet,
Expectations From Transplant Fulfilled: All of the above
Expectations From Transplant Not Fulfilled: Still dealing with Digestive
problems, 2nd Transplant needed.
Status of Complications:
Eyes – better, Feet – better, Digestion – better, Husband – worse
updated 5/02
Ned and Mary Nedbal@Cheerful.com
First Name: Ned , S.O. of Mary
Age (if willing): 43
Date of Transplant (s): Mary is a KPTX in waiting, listed 5/98
Transplant Center: Roginsen Clinic NYC NY , part of NY HOSP.
Drugs: on dialysis, Lots
How long Diabetic prior to transplant: Since age 12
Months or Yrs on dialysis: 3yrs now on a ccpd cycyler
City currently living in Long Island , NY USA
State currently living in (confused, happy, etc.. just kidding)
Marital or “Singleness” status Married
Hobbies or Profession: Mary’s’ is a very religious Catholic,
Attends as much as possible.
Me: Gardening, Wood working, antiques, tag sales, flea
markets, A big interest in OLD wood working tools, ( if ya need
a place to dump grand dads tools , let me know), info maniac,
Computers and programming to the degree needed to function these
days. I am one of many that services and maintains a radio
system for a local police department, am the technical side to
the KPTX list. and other stuff.
Benefits from Transplant: serious digestive problems put her
over the edge and she is hoping to reverse that
or any other relevant or non-relevant info:
Mary is one of 5 siblings who developed diabetes in their teens.
Later in life we had our only child, David which was born with a serious
heart defect, the first of a series of operations went
fantastic, the second 2 years later resulted in very serious
brain damage during the risky surgery, he’s now 5 and “resides”
in a “rehab” hospital.
I try to keep busy and not think about stuff
updated 9/98
Rather than delete the old info I decided to add what has changed. After a year of waiting in N.Y. Mary went to Fairview(7/98) and Madison(9/98) to be listed. In January of 1999 at 3am we got a call from Madison and after an ordeal of a trip she had a new (used) Kidney and Pancreas. She spent over 2 months in the hospital in Madison due to various complications that were eventually overcome. After her return home and some more rest and relaxation she enjoyed a few months where everything but her eyesight was improving! Currently she has a slight increase in a lab value (serum amylase) that may indicate a problem with her new pancreas. Everyone is in agreement that Mary is greatly improved over how she was last year.
Our son David passed away in November of 1999.
Updated 9/00
kptx home
Lisa Weinlader kptx96@charter.net
Name: Lisa Weinlader
Birth date: 10/26/1959
Date of Transplant: 11/27/96
Transplant Center: University of Wisconsin – Madison
Immunosuppresents: Neoral
Cellcept
Prednisone
How Long Diabetic Prior to Transplant: 30 years
Months of Years on Dialysis: N/A
Currently Living In: Madison, Wisconsin
Profession: Spanish Instructor during the academic year & Swimming Instructor during the summer
Hobbies: Acting, Reading, Swimming, Exercising, Talking with Friends
Benefits from Transplant: Gratitude and a new family – the parents, siblings, and other recipients of organs from my donor.
Expectations from Transplant Fulfilled: All
Problems from Transplant: Nothing that I can’t deal. A few bouts with CMV because my donor was positive and I was negative.
Status of Complications: No complications from the transplant. No progression of any diabetic complications. Improvement in the areas of gastroparesis, neuropathy and retinopathy.
Updated 5/02
Larry Sonnenberg
lsonny@compuserve.com
Larry
Sonnenberg (lsonny@compuserve.com)
Age: 40
Date
of Transplant (s): Waiting. On the list for a kidney-only, but am now trying to
qualify for the
KP list.
Transplant Center: Ohio State University Medical Center
Drugs: Insulin and some blood pressure stuff
How long Diabetic prior to transplant: Type-1 for 22 years
Months or Yrs on dialysis: 37 months
currently
living in: Dayton, Ohio
Marital or “Singleness” status: Single. Have been dating the same wonderful
lady for almost 12
years. “12 years! Why haven’t you married?” It’s a long story.
Pets: Madonna the cat. She’s 13 years old.
Hobbies
or Profession: Computer and business instruction for a Fortune 500 firm. Went
on
long-term disability leave last year. Hobbies include computers, music
(contemporary jazz and some
rock), reading (mostly tech-type stuff). I’m going back to college, my classes
start next week
(yea). I’m also involved with the Diabetes Walk(s), and used to be on the
board, also was on the
board of directors of the charity foundation run by my employer, and a local
government citizen’s
board.
Benefits
from Transplant: Living a full life and to return to work (which I love).
Expectations from Transplant fulfilled: still on wait list
I’ve
read quite a few of the posts. Everyone seems to be very friendly. I’m looking
forward to
chatting with all of you.
-Larry
updated 9/98
kptx home
Cecilia Lewandowski
lewie14@comcast.net
NAME: Cecilia Lewandowski
AGE: 39 (born in 1963)
DATE OF TRANSPLANT(S): Kidney 8/7/90 (lost to rejection in 4/92) KP 12/17/97
TRANSPLANT CENTER: St. John Hospital & Medical Center – Detroit, MI
MEDICATIONS: Prograf, Cellcept, Hectorol, Baby aspirin, Slow Mag, Tums EX
HOW LONG DIABETIC PRIOR TO TRANSPLANT: 22 yrs.
MONTHS OR YEARS ON DIALYSIS: 6-1/2 yrs.
CURRENTLY LIVING IN: Clinton Township, Michigan
MARITAL OR “SINGLENESS” STATUS: Single and still looking
PROFESSION: Medical Claims Benefit Analyst for a TPA (Third Party Administrator)
HOBBIES: Working out, crafts, bowling, watching hockey (GO WINGS!), hanging out with friends and family.
BENEFITS FROM TRANSPLANT: Having more energy, lost weight, no more insulin shots or reactions, better outlook on life.
EXPECTIONS FROM TRANSPLANT FULFILLED: Not having to face life on dialysis or having more severe complications from the diabetes, working a gull-time job, leading a productive life again. Not taking anything for granted, taking life as it comes – one day at a time.
EXPECTATIONS FROM TRANSPLANT NOT FULFILLED: None right now, but I’m sure I’ll find something new to conquer.
PROBLEMS FROM TRANSPLANT: Four months post tx developed reflux pancreatitis (sp) & had the conversion of pancreas from bladder to bowel.
STATUS OF COMPLICATIONS: Retinopathy – some minor complications from time to time.
ANY OTHER RELEVANT OR NON-RELEVANT INFO: I had 5 calls for my tx in 1-1/2 yrs. before I finally got the “real” call. It took me a week before I finally realized it actually happened. At my tx center, I’m #1 on the list for most “non-transplant” calls.
kptx home
updated 5/02
Barry Bruce Barrybruce@naxs.com
Name:
Barry Bruce
Age : 38
Date
of Transplant (s): Ktx 11-21-96 ptx 5-31-98
I waited 10 months but only had 1 call and that was the biggy for the ptx, my
Ktx was from my sis.
about funding for my separate ptx.
I
was required to come up with 30 grand before being put on the list. My
great uncle who was more of a grandfather to me [both of mine died when I
was young] gave me the money as part of my inheritance. The people of my
town and surrounding county also had different fund raisers and have came up
with another 17,000 and still at it. God bless ‘em.
Transplant
Center: University of Virginia
Drugs: A bunch
How long Diabetic prior to transplant: 20
Months or Yrs on dialysis: none
currently
living in: Max Meadows, Virginia
Marital or “Singleness” status: divorced- 1 rugrat 11 yr. old son
Pets : Dog
Hobbies
or Profession: hobbies- about anything to do with horses, karate
Profession – forestry by training currently whatever I have to do to get by.
Benefits
from Transplant: a1c down from 13-16 to 5.9 currently. No more highs
and lows, sleeping till I want.
Expectations
from Transplant fulfilled: longer [about till I’m 125] and
healthier life
Expectations
from Transplant not fulfilled, Problems from Transplant, Status
of Complications (better, same, etc): none I can think of.
NO
SURRENDER NO RETREAT !!!!
Barry Bruce
Barrybruce@naxs.com
Rbarrybruce@hotmail.com
I use yahoo messenger id:
rbarrybruce
kptx home
updated 5/02
Dave Moore
mooreda@oak.cats.ohiou.edu
Name: Dave MooreAge: 46 and counting
Date of Transplant: May 5, 1991 – The Ohio State University MedicalCenter – Dr. Mitch Henry, Transplant SurgeonMeds: Prednisone, Imuran, Neoral, Gantrasone, Sodium Bicarbonate, Vasotec,Cardura, Plenbil, Baby Aspirin, Multi-VitaminYears Diabetic: 30Complications: At time of transplant – ESRD Now – noneTime on Dialysis: 4 ½ Months – CAPDCity/State: The Plains, OhioMarital Status: Happily Married – 23 YearsChildren: Son – Chris – 16, going on 40Pets: Dog – Butch/Half Lab & Half Pitbull…he’s a baby J
Ribbon/Mutt…15 years and going strongProfession: Electrical Engineer for Ohio University’s Public TV StationsHobbies: Cycling, Water skiing, Hiking, Riding ATV’s, Working Out, Music,Camping, Movies, Anything News Oriented, Being With My FamilyBenefits From Transplant: No More Insulin, Unrestricted Diet, JellyDonuts, Much More Energy, Peace of MindProblems From Transplant: T-cell Rejection at 7 Months, Occasional HighSerum AmylaseExpectations From Transplant Fulfilled: To Be NormalExpectations From Transplant Not Fulfilled: NoneStatus of Complications: What Complications? Dave MooreThe Plains, OhioK/P tx 5-05-91to top of page
kptx home
updated 9/98
Karen Kennamer Scott
FRSSTUDIO@worldnet.att.net
Karen
Kennamer Scott
Age: 37
Kidney/pancreas
tx 10/12/90
On the waiting list for 3 months for dual after being on hemodialysis
for 1
year.18 years diabetic at time of tx.
tx center: UTMB/Galveston
Current
medications:
Neoral 100 mgs daily; Imuran 50 mgs daily; Prednisone 5 mgs daily;
regular
aspirin daily; Bethanachol 10 mgs bid; sodium Bicarbonate 10 gr tablets,
qid; Cardizem 180 daily ; Multivitamin and Vitamin E
Currently
living in Austin, Texas; lived in fort Worth, Texas at time of
tx; lived in Reno, NV when diagnosed with ESRD and began dialysis.
Currently
married, no natural children, 1 stepson . after being married and
divorced from 3 stepchildren. Whew!
Writer,
2-year MSW, sound engineer, ESRD /diabetes/blindness/ information
specialist. Organ donor awareness activist, e mail addict, joke miser
and
collector, toy collector. Pig collector. Frequent flyer.
Transplant
freed me from dialysis, diabetes, dying. Neuropathy virtually
disappeared with the nerves rejuvenated. Hair came back – more than I
wanted in some places!
Gained back needed weight and muscle mass.
Freedom to eat or not eat when and what I wanted instead of being
totally
governed by food. Gave me a new chance at life; like most Type I diabetics
I felt like I was cheated out of so much – childhood, adolescence, room
to
make mistakes.
The
whole ordeal of ESRD diagnosis until now gave me a very unexpected gift
- it forced me out of a terrible relationship. Thanks again!
The
only expectation I really had was that my retinopathy would improve
with the dual by virtue of stopping the diabetes and kidney disease
therefore getting the blood pressure under control. That did not happen;
in
fact , the eyes have gotten progressively worse even though the causes
are
under control or erased. . C’est la vie.
Significant
mood swings were evident in the first year but tapered off
quickly as the drugs were lowered and I learned how to handle them.
thought I knew it all about being a professional patient but being one
in
”recovery” made me grow up even more. Amazing!
I take remarkably little medications for a transplant patient.
e
mail: kake@att.net
Karen Kennamer Scott
Austin, TX
K/P TX 10/12/90
”You’ve got to dance like nobody’s watching, and love like it’s never
going to hurt.”
kptx home
updated 9/98
William Rogers
Jr. wrogers@blackwidowweb.net
From: “William Rogers Jr.” <wrogers@blackwidowweb.net>Subject: Re: My ProfileDate: Fri, 10 May 2002 11:44:40 –0400Name: Bill RogersDOB: 11/15/53Died: 11/19/99Married to Betsy for 24 yearsCape Cod, MADiagnosed ESRD 10/95Dialysis: CCPD since 12/95Other: Insulin Dependent Diabetic since age 12.k/p Transplant CandidateCenters Listed: Beth Israel/Deaconess Medical Center, Boston ,MassachusettsUniversity of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital, Miami, FloridaNotes: Bill was a kind, generous man who died waiting for his K/P transplant despite all his efforts to receive the gift of life. Together, he & his wife Betsy spent many hours reading, corresponding and speaking with others on the KPTX site. Lasting friendships been made with others here who have had their transplants. His wife remains an active member of this site and works in the organ donation field so that others will gain strength and wisdom from Bill’s experiences. kptx home
Updated 05/02
Kathy Dankwort kdankwort@ieee.org
First Name: Kathy
Last Name or Initial: Dankwort
Age (if willing): 48
Date of Transplant (s): Kidney 3/10/98, Pancreas 2/15/99
How long on wait list for TX: 2 months for kidney, then got from living
donor (my husband); 10 months for pancreas (although got several offers before I accepted one)
Transplant Center: Fairview Univ. of Minnesota
Drugs: Prograf, Imuran, Prednisone, plus lots of stomach, bp and other drugs
How long Diabetic prior to transplant: 33 years
Months or Yrs on dialysis: 6 months (6 wks hemo, 4-1/2 months PD)
Currently living in: Phoenix Arizona
Marital or “Singleness” status: Married 30 years to my generous donor
Pets : 1 very spoiled cat Brucie, no human children
Hobbies and/or Profession: Owner of computer software consulting firm,
former medical laboratory technologist; interested in nature, art, music and travel
Benefits from Transplant: I feel so much better! Much more energy,
system not poisoned, no more dialysis. Enjoy not having to test blood all the time and worry about when I eat.
Expectations from Transplant fulfilled: I tried to be cautious and not
have any expectations. It was a pleasant surprise. Also, everyone
tried to tell me and my husband that it was a long shot for the kidney. Guess we
showed them! Pancreas went even smoother than I expected, and much easier for me than the kidney transplant. I’ve been able to continue working and travel constantly.
Expectations from Transplant not fulfilled: Only thing was I feared gaining weight after getting the pancreas, and it did happen. Losing weight on the meds has been difficult.
Problems from Transplant: lymphocele that had to be repaired surgically,
transplanted ureter severed during lymphocele repair, CMV with both transplants; months of bleeding after pancreas transplant; however, NO sign of rejection with either transplant!
Status of Complications (better, same, etc.): Better – no problems now.
email address: kdankwort@ieee.org
website address: This is where my husband has his donor story and our pictures
http://www.transweb.org/people/live_don/experien/dankwort/rudy_dankwort.htm
kptx home
updated 5/02
Marcie Becker
becker@svn.net
Name
Marcie Becker
Age 47 Okay, okay, I’m the oldest one on this list… but I lived with
diabetes longer than many of you have lived!
Date of Transplant (s) June 14, 1997
how long on wait list for TX 2 ½ years
Transplant Center University of California San Francisco
Drugs prednisone, cellcept, imberl, prilosec, etc…
How long Diabetic? 40 yrs. (since age 5)
How long on dialysis? 1yr on CCPD
Currently living in Petaluma (Sonoma County) California
Marital or “Singleness” status Single
Pets 3 llamas, 2 sheep, 2 geese, 2 cats
Profession: Transplant liaison for local eye & tissue bank. Includes
hospital
development and community outreach about organ and tissue donation.
It’s easy to be passionate about my work! I also do hospice
bereavement counseling.
Hobbies: Silversmithing, gardening, distance swimming, various artistic
endeavors
Benefits from Transplant: Suddenly I have a future! Although I’ve always had a
positive attitude, now I’m more appreciative of everything. I’m more
passionate, more spiritual, more giving. It’s easier to focus on the
important aspects of life.
Expectations from Transplant fulfilled: Physically I feel better than I can
ever
remember. Although not an expectation, my new perspective on life
enriches every experience and relationship.
Problems from Transplant Thankfully none. So far, so good.
Status of Complications retinopathy-same neuropathy-slight improvement
Other relevant or non-relevant info. A major part of my transplant experience
is the
meaningful relationship I have with my donor family. Christopher was
barely16, his death was suicide. It has helped the family immensely to know
that I’m doing well and appreciate their gift every day. Inspired by them, I
created a “Star of Life” symbol to honor all donor families. The star design
was used as our Team Northern California logo at the US TX Games in Ohio. I
also handcraft silver star pendants and give them to donor families. For me,
the star and transplant in general represent the best in humanity….life,
love and the spirit of giving.
email address becker@svn.net
kptx home
updated 11/98
Marcial and Jenny Goitia mjg1@lanset.com
Marcial
and Jenny Goitia
Age: 42 Jenny 37
Date
of Jenny’s K/P Transplant 4/20/99
how long on wait list for TX 3 years
Transplant
Center- Cal Pacific
Dr. Bry, transplant surgeon
Dr. Katznelson Nephrologist
Meds for now: Prednisone, Prograf, Cellcept, Bactrim, Cyotene, Persantine,
Mycelex, Pepcid, Aspirin, Neutraphos, Chocolate Milkshake
How
long Diabetic prior to transplant: 27 years
Yrs on dialysis: 3
City/State
currently living in Reno NV.
Marital or “Singleness” status together since1980
Pets Soon as we get a fence put up for a westie
Benefits
from Transplant, FREEDOM from insulin and the “chair”
Expectations from Transplant fulfilled, ALL
Expectations from Transplant not fulfilled, none
Problems from Transplant, suture pulled through artery day after
transplant had to go back in to fix.
Status
of Complications (better,
same, etc.)retinopathy same, neuropathy in feet reversing somewhat. or any
other
relevant or non-relevant info. Had vitrectomy in left eye, laser
treatments in both eyes
email address mjg1@lanset.com
kptx home
Profile dated 6/99
Editor’s Note: Jenny passed away from complications on March 13, 2000.
Jenny’s husband, Marcial, sent this picture of Jenny taken during the summer of 1998 to the group.
She will be missed by all that knew her.
Lisa Barnes LRBSVCS@aol.com
Name:
Lisa Barnes
Age: 33
Date of Transplant: Not yet. Just got listed 6-25-99 at the National
Institute of Health in Bethesda, MD. Chief surgeon is Dr. Allen Kirk.
Drugs: Insulin, Procardia, Atenolol, Lipitor, Nephrocaps…I think that’s
it.
How
long Diabetic: since the age of nine, for 24 years
Months/Years on Dialysis: 10 months already
City/State currently living in: Atlanta, GA
Marital/Singleness: Still single L
Pets: Did have a cat named Jasmine but I had to give her away.
Hobbies/Profession: Was working for myself contracting out my
secretarial
services from home. Stopped working in September when I got really sick.
Hobbies: like to read, go out with my friends, movies, etc.
Expectations
from Transplant: To not have to worry about what time I have
to eat. To have a better quality of life. To get back to work again! To
be
able to start a family.
Relevant
or non-relevant info: My biggest fear is getting extremely fat
from the medication. I just remember how awful I felt with fluid
overload
before I started dialysis. That’s my biggest fear.
Email address: lrbsvcs@aol.com
Update: 5/02:
A
couple of things have changed- September 11, 1999 I received my
kidney-pancreas transplant as part of a clinical trial at the National
Institutes of Health in Bethesda, Maryland. In October of 2000, I went
back
to work and became a Career Counselor for the Georgia Transplant Foundation
for a program called JobLink. We help solid organ transplant recipients and
candidates return to work.
Still not married. Enjoying my life. And I’m actually 12 pounds less than I
was when on dialysis…haven’t gained any weight..not yet!! It’ll be 3 years
this September- yeah
kptx home
updated 5/02
Helen Shelley Hshe9927@aol.com
First
Name: Helen Shelley
Age: 40
Date
of TX: March 4, 1999
How Long On List: 3 years
Transplant Center: Baylor University Hospital, Dallas
Drugs: Prograf, Cytovene,
Prednisone, K-Phos, Cellcept
How Long Diabetic: 37 years
Months or Years on Dialysis: 3 ½ years
City/State Living In: Reno, Texas (a little town just west of Fort
Worth)
Married Status: Happily remarried for 1 ½ years
Pets: Percy the Wonderdog
Hobbies: Reading, sewing, knitting, gardening
Benefits
From Transplant: No more waking up after hypoglycemic episodes. Being able to
eat whatever I want without feeling guilty or having my husband ask if I
should really be eating that!
Expectations fulfilled: All the positive ones!
Expectations
not Fulfilled: Gaining weight, moon-face and increased
hair growth
Complications:
Pancreas rejection indications the first week
after Tx and then 3 months later. Amylase levels are slowly rising
again….
From Diabetes: Until the kidney failure, none. After starting
retinopathy but it progressed very
quickly-laser treatments,
vitrectomies and cataract surgeries in both eyes and more laser
treatments after my vision clouded again.
kptx home
updated 8/99
Lynn Wisniewski
jwisn@stratos.net
Hi
Everyone,
I’m a 35 year old female who has been diabetic since age 9. That means
I’ve been a diabetic for around 26 years. I’ve had laser treatments (too
many count) to treat diabetic retinopathy. Right now, thanks to God, my
eyes are stable. My doctor tells me that I’m spilling protein in my
urine.
I take a blood pressure pill (Capoten) to treat high blood pressure and to
prevent kidney disease. I, by chance, found this web site and have been
just intrigued to read everyone’s comments. I’m not sure what’s in store
for me, but judging by how you folks have progressed, perhaps I will be
facing a similar situation in my future. I didn’t realize the pancreas
and kidney transplants were becoming more common. It sound promising at
least from my standpoint, although I realize I don’t have all the facts
in
front of me. I live near Cleveland, Ohio. For now, I would like to
continue to sit in the background and just read what’s going on with all
of you. It’s nice to know that there’s support out there for me though,
when/if the time comes when I’ll be faced with these concerns. Thanks,
Lynn at <jwisn@stratos.net>
kptx home
updated 8/99
mailto:grier@ozemail.com.au
First
Name David
Last Name or Initial G
Age (if willing) 46
Date of Transplant (s) K 10/28/1998
how long on wait list for TX 15 months
Transplant Centre Adelaide South Australia, Laparoscopic
Drugs Neoral only
How long Diabetic prior to transplant Never
Months or Yrs on dialysis 15 months
City/State currently living in Brisbane
Marital or “Singleness” status Married
Pets None
Hobbies and/or Profession Semi retired
Benefits from Transplant no dialysis
Expectations from Transplant fulfilled
Expectations from Transplant not fulfilled
Problems from Transplant pain issues
Status of Complications (better, same, etc.) better
e-mail address edge@ozemail.com.au
kptx home
updated 5/02
Russ Gingrey
dgingrey@hotmail.com
(Name) Russ Gingrey
(Age)
43
(Date of Transplant) 7/2/92
(how long on wait list for TX) 8 weeks
(Transplant Center) University of Washington
(Drugs) Neoral, Cellcept, Prednisone, Sodium Bicarb, Norvasc,
Hytrin,
Aspirin, Tums, Multi-vitamin
(How long Diabetic prior to transplant) 30 years
(Months or Yrs on dialysis) 8 weeks
(City/State currently living in) Silverdale, WA
(Marital or “Singleness” status) Married 22 years, 1 daughter
– adopted 11
months after transplant – she’s the light of our lives. What
is totally
amazing, she doesn’t even know what diabetes isJ
(Pets) 1 German Shepard, 1 old cat
(Hobbies and/or Profession) Fishing, crabbing (anything in a
boat on the
Hood Canal), woodworking, growing plants. Forced out on
retirement before
transplant.
(Benefits from Transplant) Eating what I want, when I want.
Love the
sweets. Took me a long time to not feel guilty eating sugar.
Not having to
poke my finger, no reactions (biggie), freedom, energy, feel
so much better.
(Expectations from Transplant fulfilled) Anything was better
than the way I
was – so everything has been a plus. I really did not think I
would live
this long – used to think if I made it to 30 I would be doing
goodJ
(Expectations from Transplant not fulfilled) I didn’t have
any expectations.
After attending the class on transplantation ahead of time, I
was even
more scared, really didn’t think I would make it through.
(Problems from Transplant) Warts – monstrous warts on my
hands.
(Status of Complications)Gastrapothy – much better;
neuropathy – better;
retinopathy – better.
I highly recommend a kidney and pancreas
transplant to any diabetic with
progressing kidney disease. In fact, I would recommend a
pancreas
transplant to anyone diabetic. Life is so much more less
stressful not
being diabetic. I had two severe rejections after transplant
and had to
have some nasty drugs (OKT3 – we called it Shake and Bake). I
would still
do it again if I ever lost my current organs – the road is
not easy, but
it’s worth it.
(email address) dgingrey@hotmail.com
kptx home
updated 9/00
Lori Eckrich leckrich@dtgnet.com
Name: Lori
Eckrich
Age 43
Date of Transplant (s) March 28, 2002
Transplant Center FUMC
Drugs Cellcept, Prograf, Prednisone,
Sodium Bicarb, Bactrim, Prevacid,calcium, potassium,aspirin,Synthroid, Zelnorm,
Carafate, allergy meds
How long Diabetic 31+ years
Months or Yrs on dialysis No kidney
problems, PTA
City/State Sioux Falls, SD
Marital – Married 14 years
Pets Bear – our black cat who is more like
a dog
Hobbies Cooking, reading, working out
Profession Hospital engineer (MS
Engineering from ISU 1985)
Benefits from Transplant I don’t pass out
anymore!! I work out without having to
increase my insulin (workouts imberly my gastroparesis enough that my gut would
get some motility). I do still have
significant issues with the gastroparesis and anemia.
email address leckrich@dtgnet.com
kptx home
updated 3/16/2003
Kathy St. John colekat27@hotmail.com
33
4/21/98
Spokane Transplant center at Sacred Heart
I’m on cellcept, cyclosporin, prednisone,mycelex,metroprolol.enalapril,mag-ox,docusate,pravachol,lantus insulin and humalog insulin
diabetic 25 yrs prior to transplant
1 yr and 2 months on dialysis
I have 1 dog T.J. and 2 birds Lucy and yellow bird and 8 fish
I live in Spokane, WA
I am married to my husband Colin for 5 years
I am disabled. I had a stroke 7 years ago
I was about to die because my body didn’t like peritoneal dialysis and my veins were shot that’s why I had to go on it and the transplant saved my life.
I hate prednisone! Its making me gain weight and have hair EVERYWHERE!!!!!!!!!
My email address is: mailto:colekat27@hotmail.com
This profile dated 10/01
Barry Willhight
.
Name: Barry Willhight
Age (if willing): 41, born 3/18/61
Date of Transplant: 12/12/97
How long on wait list for TX: 26 months
Length of time (and type) of dialysis: Hemodialysis for 3 years.
Transplant Center: Oregon Health Sciences University, Portland, Oregon
Medications: Sandimmune(cyclosporin); Imuran, prednisone, Lasix, sodium bicarb, vitamin C, zinc, magnesium, multi vitamin, aspirin, allopurinol, Prilosec, Coreg, Lipitor, Atacand
How long a diabetic prior to transplant: 29 years
Complications from diabetes: Retinopathy, ESRD (prior to TX)
City/State currently living in: Snoqualmie, Washington
Marital or “Singleness” status: Married since 1980, 2 children, son born in 1981 and daughter 1984 (she developed diabetes at age 8).
Pets: 2 dogs, one small, one large
Hobbies and/or Profession: I work on safety and environmental issues at a sawmill and lumber finishing mill. I coach little league soccer, a habit I picked up from watching my own 2 children play when they were younger.
Benefits from Transplant: To me, the biggest advantage has been the constant decline in health I experienced from the diabetes (it even declined faster on dialysis) seems to have slowed, or even stopped.
Expectations from transplant fulfilled: With the end of dialysis I have a much higher quality of life, as I feel better and have more energy. The diabetic complications I have are no longer getting worse.
Expectations from transplant not fulfilled: I can’t get back into as good of physical shape as I was before the ESRD. Even with the diabetes, I was able to backpack in Washington’s alpine lakes wilderness. Now, I just can’t seem to get back into that good of shape.
Problems from Transplant: Warts—I have a few small ones here and there (hands, shoulder) and one great big one on the bottom of my foot.
This
Profile dated 04/21/02
Lori Kay-Kirsch lorinbob@myacc.net
First
Name: Lori
Last Name or Initial: Kaye-Kirsch
Age (if willing): 39
Date of Transplant (s): ¾/02
How long on wait list for TX: 3 Short Months
Transplant Center: University of Miami Jackson Memorial
Drugs: Prograff, Rapamune, Medrol (Pred.), and about 10 others
How long Diabetic prior to transplant: 26 Long Years
Months or Yrs on dialysis: Called for Transplant days before scheduled to
start.
City/State currently living in: Coral Springs, FL (Ft. Laud. Area)
Marital or “Singleness” status: Married
Children: 10 Year old daughter
Pets: Furby my mini Pekingese, Martin my Parakeet
Hobbies and/or Profession: Homemaker and Mom
Benefits from Transplant: Too soon to tell
Expectations from Transplant fulfilled: Too soon to tell
Expectations from Transplant not fulfilled: So far, none
Problems from Transplant: Needed add’l surgery 1 month after
Status of Complications (better, same, etc.): Too soon to tell
or any other relevant or non-relevant info.
email address: Lorinbob@myacc.net
Date of profile: 04/02
Jan Powell powell01@hotmail.com
Name: Jan Powell
Age: 50
Length of time on tx list: as of April 2002—29 months
Tx center: Willis Knighton/LSU; Shreveport, Louisiana
Length of time for diabetes: gestational; diagnosed at age 27; type 1
Time on dialysis: 28 months as of April 2002
City, State: Winnfield, Louisiana (north central Louisiana)
Divorced; two children Mark 27, Jennifer 23
Pets: 2 Schnauzers, Sassy and Muffin
Hobbies; needlework, working in the yard; volunteer for Louisiana Organ
Procurement Agency, maintain church music library; retired middle school
science teacher
Expectations for transplant: to live my life!
Email addy: powell01@hotmail.com
Date of profile: 04/02
Editor’s Note: Jan passed away
on 3/31/2004 from complications following a successful transplant in November
of 2003. Jan was always a very active
member of this group, and will be missed by all of us dearly.
to top of page
kptx home
Tim Lucas
Tim,taken
in Seattle during the summer of 2004.
First Name Tim
Age (if willing) 34
type of dialysis used (pre transplant) In Center Hemo
Clinic Northpointe Dialysis Unit
Months or Yrs on dialysis 2 Years 4 Months
Transplant (s) status KPTX On March 20 ,2002
how long on wait list for TX 1 Year 9 Months
Transplant Center University of Washington Medical Center
Drugs used, prescription, non prescription, supplements FK-506, Prednisone, Cellcept along with assorted anti-viral and antibiotics
City Spokane
State Washington
Country USA
Marital or “Singleness” status Single since Dec of 95
Pets None
Hobbies Computers, Target Shooting, Fishing, Skiing
Profession Anything that pays
Updated 5/02
Editor’s Note: Tim
was taken from us in December, 2007. He
was a personal friend to a number of us on this list, including myself. As his friend Kake put it: “Some of you who knew him either
in person or on line will know he
kept handling all the hurdles life through at him with a sense of
humor and stoicism. Like so many of our friends, he finally just had
enough and saw that to keep on hammering with one medical procedure
after another was an exercise in diminishing returns...and so he
accepted that he wouldn't be with us for much longer.”
Chip Freundt ChipFre@juno.com
First Name Chip
Last Name or Initial Freundt
Age (if willing) 44
Date of Transplant (s)3-14-00
how long on wait list for TX 1 year and 10 days
Transplant Center University of Alabama Medical Center
Drugs Prograf, Rappamune, Prednisone, Cozaar
How long Diabetic prior to transplant 20 plus years
Months or Yrs on dialysis 2 years
City/State currently living in Brandon, MS
Marital or “Singleness” status Single
Pets None
Hobbies and/or Profession Autograph Collecting, reading, listening to music,
watching Sci-Fi and Fox News, Web Site Designing
Benefits from Transplant Freedom
Expectations from Transplant fulfilled Yes
Expectations from Transplant not fulfilled Haven’t met donor family yet.
Problems from Transplant Just one number the hematocrit keeps around 50 percent
Status of Complications (better, same, etc.) Slowed down a little.
email address ChipFre@juno.com
website address http://www.addresses.site2go.com
Profile date: 5/02
Picture added: 12/02
Wendy Wage Mann
Name:
Wendy Wage Mann
Age: 50 (made it!), born 2/17/52
Date of 1st Transplant: 03/31/87 kidney from my Mom
Date of 2nd Transplant: 04/26/98 kidney and pancreas
How long on wait list for TX: 1st – no wait, 2nd –
4 ½ years
Length of time (and type) of
dialysis: Hemodialysis for 3 ½ years.
Transplant Center: St.
Vincent’s Medical Center, LA, CA – Dr. Paul Asai but followed in San Diego by Sharp
Memorial (where they just did their own kptx 5/28/02) and now am a Kaiser
member
Medications: Gengraf (generic Neoral and it doesn’t smell as bad),
Cellcept, Prednisone, Diltiazem (blood pressure), hydrochlorothiazide,
Synthroid, Macrodantin, Evista (bone density)
Supplements: Omega 3, CoQ10, Vitamins C, B (assorted) and E, Guggul,
Chromium Picolinate, Multi with Herbs and I eat really well!
How long a diabetic prior to transplant: 31 years
Complications from diabetes: Retinopathy, Neuropathy, ESRD which caused
my bones to weaken – have had 4 hip replacements in right hip and right knee
replaced, big toe on right foot amputated, cataracts
City/State currently living in: San Diego, CA but have close alliances in
Chicago IL, NY NY, Providence RI, and Fairfield CT
Marital or “Singleness” status: 2nd marriage 1990 and very
much in love with Kevin who is not only my husband but my friend and guardian
angel against hypoglycemia
Pets: 2 cats – Brutus tuxedo long hair from the ASPCA age 12 (very suave
and debonair but a wuss) and Silver pedigree short hair exotic age 6 who rules
the house
Hobbies and/or Profession: BFA in Communications Design from RISD and
worked as a graphic artist for many years (until my eyes couldn’t handle it)
and when I needed good insurance worked for Westinghouse as a National Accounts
rep. Currently am on disability because I qualify as “legally
blind”. Love the stock market. Am working on turning our home into
a showplace. “No White Walls” is my mantra. Also garden and cook,
enjoy La Jolla Playhouse (2nd row center season tickets), travel
(usually to visit family in CT), working as mentor with transplant candidates
and recent transplantees.
Benefits from Transplant: I never thought I’d see 50. Energy level
is actually above nonexistent. I can eat good food without worrying about
my blood sugar. I don’t worry as much as I used to.
Expectations from transplant fulfilled: EVERYTHING is BETTER!
Expectations from transplant not fulfilled: I know my eyes will not get
any better even though they are better. I can’t do the fine work I used
to do because my hands tremble.
Problems from transplant: Sepsis (that was very scary and I used one of
my 9 lives), hand trembling, still have bouts of hypoglycemia and my doctor is
thinking the pancreas is not doing as well as it was.
This Profile dated 05/29/02
Lori Miller mojavestartz@aol.com
First
Name:
Lori
Last Name or Initial: Miller
Age (if willing): 43
Date of Transplant (s): 8/7/99 PTA
how long on wait list for TX: 5 weeks
Transplant Center: Fairview University Medical Center, MN
Drugs: Cellcept, Prograf, prednisone, and a bunch more not related to
transplant
How long Diabetic prior to transplant: 35 years
Months or Yrs on dialysis: None
City/State currently living in: Fresno, California
Marital or “Singleness” status: Divorced with 2 kids—Sara, 19 and Bryan,
14
Pets: 2 dogs and 4 cats
Hobbies and/or Profession: Registered nurse working in pediatric
intensive care
Benefits from Transplant: No more highs and lows, absence of hypoglycemia
unawareness, improvement in most of the neuropathies that I have, the
pills
are so much easier to manage than insulin ever was, even on the insulin pump.
Not having to worry about eating because I took my insulin. It’s
easier for
me to keep the extra weight off
Expectations from Transplant fulfilled: All
Expectations from Transplant not fulfilled: Still don’t have a
life! I
thought it would be easy to “forget” about being a diabetic but I realize
now, that after 35 years of living with it, it is not all that easy to change
your way of thinking or lifestyle.
Problems from Transplant: None whatsoever. No rejection or problems
with
the meds. The only problem I have now is that I was just recently
diagnosed
with Celiac disease (after 3 hospitalizations and a lot of weight loss) and
so now I am stuck on a gluten-free diet that is much worse than a diabetic
diet. At least I had close to 3 years of being able to eat
normally! It is
an autoimmune disease and more common in diabetics – I feel so fortunate to
be blessed with 2 of these conditions. NOT! I cannot imagine trying
to
manage this diet as a diabetic on insulin. I really thought it was the
gastroparesis returning with a vengeance and I started to get depressed
thinking I was going to live it all over again. I realize now that I
never
want to live like that again.
Status of Complications (better, same, etc.): Everything is better for
the
most part. Pain in feet is better and I no longer take pain meds for it,
gastroparesis is better, the nerves to my heart are the slowest to
recover
and exercise is difficult, walking is fine but I sometimes have problems with
doing stairs.
I am really glad I pursued my transplant and did not listen to the doctors
that told me I should wait until it was perfected and not to be a guinea pig.
How wrong they were! This was my one chance to be “normal” and
being in
medicine I certainly know that nothing in medicine is “perfect.” Even if
it
had failed, at least I could say I tried. I thank God every day that it
was
a success.
email address: mojavestarz@aol.com
This profile dated 5/29/02
kptx home
Linda Loh l@loh.as
First Name: LindaLast Name: LohAge: 34Marital Status: singleCity/State: San Francisco, CA (originally from Hong Kong)Date of tx:12/13/2000 (pancreas alone, kidney still functioning)Transplant Center: Fairview Medical Center, Minnesota (but follow up by transplant team at UC Medical Center @ SF)Drugs: Prograf, Cellcept, Rapammune and Prednisone, plus a lot of other meds for lupus, hypertension asthma and osteoporosis.(total of 22)Years of diabetes before tx: 23 yearsBenefits after tx:insulin free, no more low and high blood sugar unawareness, neuropathy better, especially on irregular heart rate and orthostatic hypotension Expectations from tx fulfilled: part/yes, part/noExpectations not fulfilled: still have great deal of muscle weakness on both legs, not able to go out like normal people, still not able to bike like 5 years ago Complications: so far 1 episode of rejection, steroid induced muscle weakness, chronic anemiaOccupation; just graduated from University in DieteticsHobbies: Surfing the web, cannot go out muchEmail: l@loh.as
This profile dated 6/12/02
kptx home
Eric Heaton
First name: Eric
Last: Heaton
Age 41:
Date of Transplant: June 27,2002 Received both pancreas and kidney
How long on list: 14 months and 6 days
Transplant Center: Johnson City Medical Center, Johnson City, Tennessee
How long diabetic: 17 years
Months on dialysis: 15 on hemodialysis
City: Elizabethton
State: Tennessee
Occupation: Minister
Married: 19 years
Children: 1 daughter age 17
Pets: None
Hobbies: Fly fishing
Benefits from transplant: Neuropathy has significantly decreased. Kidney function good.
Complications: Blood sugars are not consistent, but doctor thinks it is due to all drugs taking.
Have good days and bad…. throwing up all day. Fasting blood sugars always between 90 and 100. Others throughout day are 140 to 190.
Drugs: Prednisone, Neoral, Nystatin, Coreg, Clonidine, Cytovene, Diflucan, Protonix, Cellcept, Synthroid
Expectations: No rejections yet. Have only had 1 month. Happy not on dialysis and insulin shots. So far labs are good and no rejection.
Problems:
Vision and stomach problems. Throwing up about every 3 days.
Tolerance of drugs.
Date of Profile: 7/24/2002
Michael G. Grant06@aol.com
First Name:
Michael
Initial: G
Age: 46
Date of Transplant: July 5-6 2002
Waiting list: About 5 months
Transplant Center: Through the VA at the Iowa City Medical Center
Drugs: Prograf, Rapamune, and Prednisone
How long diabetic: 26 years
Dialysis: about 18 months
We live in Pineville Louisiana
We being my wife and I
We have two dogs, Molly the Golden Retriever, and as a back-up; Nigel our
English Mastiff.
Benefits from transplant: The obvious of course. And I’m surprised that some of
the complications seem to be reversing.
Expectations fulfilled: Yes and sort of. Haven’t bounced back as quickly as I
hoped, but life has certainly become much easier.
Problems from transplant: None
E-Mail address: Grant06@aol.com
Date of profile: 12/12/02.
Harvey S. throwin@aol.com
First
Name: Harvey
Last
Name or Initial: S
Age
(if willing): 51
Date
of Transplant (s): August 20, 2002
How
long on wait list for TX: 5 months
Transplant
Center: University of Chicago
Drugs:
Cellcept, Prednisone, Prograf, Bactrim,
Labetelol, Zocor
How
long Diabetic prior to transplant: 31 years
Months
or Yrs on dialysis: 10 months
City/State
currently living in: Evanston, IL
Marital
or “Singleness” status: married
Pets
: black Lab
Hobbies
and/or Profession: public
administration
Benefits
from Transplant: normal blood pressure,
no pain from neuropathy, normal imberly, no migraines, no dialysis, no insulin,
no
glucose monitoring, much more normal appetite, can eat whatever I want, huge
amount of energy
Expectations
from Transplant fulfilled: so far, completely
Problems
from Transplant: my blood was losing oxygenation and I needed an emergency
trachiostomy while in the recovery room. This lead
to
swallowing problems and an inability to eat solids for 5-6 weeks
Status
of Complications (better, same, etc.): much better.
email address: throwin@aol.com
Profile
dated 1/03
Donna Guillot dkguillot@yahoo.com
First Name: Donna
Last Name or Initial: Guillot
Age (if willing): 31
Date of Transplant (s): 09/12/02
how long on wait list for TX: 11 months
Transplant Center: University of Maryland
Drugs: Prograf, Cellcept, Prednisone, Aspirin, Mycelex, Bactrim
How long Diabetic prior to transplant: 21 years
Months or Yrs on dialysis: 0
City/State currently living in: La
Marital or “Singleness” status: Single
Pets: no
Hobbies and/or Profession: Loan Officer
Benefits from Transplant: Normal blood sugar, normal kidney function, lots of energy
Expectations from Transplant fulfilled: all
Expectations from Transplant not fulfilled: none
Problems from Transplant: Staph infection on pancreas 5 weeks in hospital and 4
surgeries
Status of Complications (better, same, etc.) infection gone everything is
great!
or any other relevant or non-relevant info.
email address: dkguillot@yahoo.com
Profile dated 1/19/2003
Jim McGowan
First Name Jim (James)
Last Name or Initial McGowan
Age (if willing) 52
Date of Transplant (s) 9/2/04
how long on wait list for TX 2 yrs
Transplant Center Northwestern Memorial Hospital.
Drugs Rapamune, Cellcept
How long Diabetic prior to transplant 50 yrs, I was 3
(1955)
Months or Yrs on dialysis I avoided it.
City/State currently living in Aurora, Il 60504
Marital or "Singleness" status Divorced
Pets none
Hobbies and/or Profession Computers, People Watching,
The Outdoors
Benefits from Transplant, Not Dying yet, Not being so
tired, Functioning normal, No threat of dialysis and
the complications, More energy, NOT Being Diabetic
Expectations from Transplant fulfilled Yes
email address j60504@yahoo.com
Profile dated 2/20/2005
Angela Stone
Name Angela
Stone
Age (if willing) 32
Date of Transplant (s) 12/19/2000
how long on wait list for TX Three years
Transplant Center UCSF Medical Center
Drugs Rapamune pills (thank God!!!) and Cyclosporine
How long Diabetic prior to transplant 20 years
Months or Yrs on dialysis 2 ½ on hemo, and 6 months peritoneal
Currently living in Prescott Valley, AZ via Santa Cruz, CA
Marital or “Singleness” status Remarried, with a 7 year-old daughter from the
first marriage
Pets: Zee, Tiny, Rikki and Buster (cats) and Tigger and Foxy (dogs)
Hobbies and/or Profession computers, mural painting, sewing, nature…stuff
like that; still coming to terms with the fact that I no longer have the energy
to work “for real” and being a mom
Benefits from Transplant I’ve gained about 20 pounds (oh, great!) because
I no longer have to worry about maintaining a “diabetic diet”, I found the
courage to divorce my ex BPD husband while on dialysis (what else did I have to
lose?), and I’ve discovered that I’m a really good cook! J
Expectations from Transplant fulfilled I no longer have to live with dialysis
or injections
Expectations from Transplant not fulfilled I’m not a rock climber and I
still don’t know how to water ski
Problems from Transplant general lack of energy
Status of Complications (better, same, etc.) same
or any other relevant or non-relevant info. I’ve tried both peritoneal
and hemo dialysis, for anyone trying to make that wonderful decision…they both
suck. Given the choice, hemo leaves uglier scars, and if you are
fortunate enough to have “good veins, “ the A/V fistula that was created in my
arm is still closing up after about 3 years of inactivity…which is kind of
painful.
email address stoneangel@cableone.net
Profile dated 10/03/03
Thomas Young
Name, Thomas Young. .
Age, 28. .
Date of transplant, 04/13/02 .
On list for TX, 2years
Transplant center, good Samaritan transplant center in phoenix, AZ.
Drugs, Prograf, Cellcept, prednisone, diflucan. Diabetic for, 18 years. .
On dialysis, 4 years. .
Living in, phoenix, Arizona. .
Marital status, single. Pets, dog. .
Profession, student. .
Benefits of transplant, really healthy, more energy and good appetite. .
Expectations of transplant fulfilled, yes. .
Expectations not fulfilled, none. .
Problems from transplant, none at all. .
My status, is perfect no complications, I’m living a great life now, no more
stupid insulin shots or reactions, I can eat almost anything I want now. I
thank god every day for my donor, she was not a living donor, she was only 16
years old. I cant wait until I get to hug and thank her in heaven. God bless
you Jessica, I never met you, but I love you and cant wait to see you some
day. .
My email address is, youngdog74@hotmail.com.
kptx home
Ken Hopkins
First Name JD Speed (wife of Ken Hopkins –
kptx recipient)
Age (if willing) JD – 35, Ken – 38
Date of Transplant 4/9/03
how long on wait list for TX One and a half year
Transplant Center Tulane University Hospital and Clinic – Center for
Abdominal Transplant
Drugs Prednisone, Prograf, Cellcept, Bactrim, Protonix, Aspirin, Flomax,
Multivitamin, Renagel, Reglan, Aranesp, Lobetolol
How long Diabetic prior to transplant 25 yrs
Months or Yrs on dialysis 3 yrs
City/State currently living in Baton Rouge, LA
Marital or “Singleness” status We got hitched on 4/4/03 but we were
together 6 yrs prior to that.
Pets One 8 yr old Pekingese named, Mufon
Hobbies and/or Profession JD –hobbies: knitting, reading, web surfing, gold
panning; profession – involuntarily retired radio disk jockey now an unpaid
nurse/homemaker and loudmouth troublemaker regarding disability issues.
Ken –hobbies: blind friendly computer games and ufo’s; profession –
former master control operator for DirecTv (he got paid to watch TV) No
adaptive technology available for that job so he was in school learning
computer programming when the transplant call came.
Benefits from Transplant No dialysis for a month now.
Expectations from Transplant fulfilled No longer diabetic
Expectations from Transplant not fulfilled Kidney’s still not fully
functioning
Problems from Transplant 10 days after surgery it was discovered that the
duodenum had come unsewn and he developed infection in his abdomen.
Emergency surgery got it all cleared up but it put both organs at risk.
20% of the pancreas was found to be necrotic and had to be removed which caused
pancreatitis. Kidney showed ATN from first biopsy and a case of mild
rejection (that was quickly treated) from the last biopsy. He developed a
bedsore on his sacrum and got MRSA in his incision which meant it had to be
left open to heal. Three months in the hospital caused too much weight
and muscle loss. Also developed anxiety and depression.
Status of Complications (better, same, etc.) Pancreas is healed and
working fine. Incision is closed and healed. Still working on
getting the bedsore healed. Creatinine and BUN are both consistently
coming down and he’s not had to dialyze for a month. Hematocrit is still
to low. Home health physical therapy comes threes times a week and he’s
gained 30 lbs. Depression is getting better…anxiety still comes and goes.
or any other relevant or non-relevant info. Our miracle is still in the
process of becoming. We’ve just had to work a little for it. Can’t
wait to experience life without insulin or dialysis while feeling good!
email address Djocki@aol.com
website address http://www.tlcontact.com
The name of Ken’s site is: KensKPTX
kptx home
Kim Buffington
First Name Edward (had
transplant) and Kim (spouse)
Last Name or Initial Buffington
Age (if willing) 39 and 36
Date of Transplant (s) April 19, 1996
how long on wait list for TX about a year
Transplant Center Jewish Hospital in Louisville, KY
Drugs Rappamune, Prednisone, Cellcept, Prilosec,
Sodium Bicarb., HTZ and a few others
How long Diabetic prior to transplant 26 years, since
the age of 6 years old
Months or Yrs on dialysis First and only time on
dialysis was directly after transplant.
City/State currently living in Waverly, WV
Marital or “Singleness” status Married
Pets
Hobbies and/or Profession
Benefits from Transplant
Expectations from Transplant fulfilled
Expectations from Transplant not fulfilled
Problems from Transplant Develped pancreatitis and a
portion of the pancreas had to be removed a few weeks after transplant.
Status of Complications (better, same, etc.) No
rejection problems as yet. The only problems are diabetic neuropathy and
problems healing after breaking my foot.
or any other relevant or non-relevant info.
email address Kimberly.Buffington@bpd.treas.gov
Date of
Profile 01/08/04
kptx home
Nancy
First name: Nancy (tnt71617@yahoo.com)
Age: 39 DOB 11-28-64
Date of Transplant: July 16-17, 2003
Transplant Center: UCLA Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA
Medications: Prograf, Rapamune, Prednisone, Lipitor, Furosemide,
Celexa, Magnesium, Calcium, Vit B & C, Aspirin
Length of time Diabetic: 32 years
Time on Dialysis: 1 year 7 months on CCPD
Time on Transplant Waiting List: 1 year 4 months
City/State: Port Hueneme, CA
Marital Status: Very Happily Married
Hobbies/Profession: hobbies- cooking, shopping, decorating, reading Profession- mom and previous to that I have been in clerical work, sales, jewelry design and sales, trade show coordinator.
Benefits of Transplant: Fewer needles and no more restless nights on the cycler and I can sleep on my tummy again and get in a jacuzzi, no more guilt over the occasional piece of chocolate, more optimistic outlook on the future, retinopathy has almost stopped completely (no more laser surgery!).
Expectations from Transplant Fulfilled: 75%: the rest is being resolved currently
Problems from Transplant: Required another surgery after kptx; after 3 days home had intense abdominal pain went bak to UCLA and took 2 days to decide to do surgery- found small puncture of intestine from original surgery adding another 10 day hospital stay. Had rejection episode at 3 month mark; had to change meds and really increase prednisone and still have lingering effects from that. I am getting better every day..
Date of Profile: 01/12/04
kptx home
Robert D. Duran
First Name Robert D Duran
Age 35
Date of Kidney TX: September 6,2000
Listed for Pancreas December 5,2003
how long on wait list for TX about 1 year
Transplant Center UCLA
Drugs Prograff; Prednisone; Diltiazem
How long Diabetic prior to transplant 19 years
Months or Yrs on dialysis 17 months
Currently living in Los Angeles, CA - San Fernando Valley
Engaged to my best friend of 13 years Lisa, who was tested, matched then
scheduled to donate a kidney when I got "the call".
Hobbies and/or Profession: Massage therapist and musician. Two things that go
well with my limited vision.
Problems from Transplant: For a week after the operation my new kidney still
wasn't working. The doctors thought that it was "sleeping". A biopsy
revealed that it was in fact a rejection. After 5 days of thyma-globulin
treatment things were fine. I was in the hospital for three and a half weeks.
Three months after transplant, tests showed that I had CMV. I spent a few days
in the hospital then about six weeks getting Gancyclovir through a PICC line.
Status of Complications (better, same, etc.) Everything with my kidney is fine.
I've had several infections - not related to my kidney - that have required IV
antibiotics. I now have a central line (porta cath) which I was told would come
in handy with my pancreas TX.
rd_duran@mac.com
Profile dated 12/19/03
Brian Simon
First
Name - Brian
Last Name or Initial - Simon
Age (if willing) - 50
Date of Transplant (s) - 7/31/00
how long on wait list for TX - 13 months
Transplant
Center - UCLA
Drugs
- prograf, cellcept, prednisone, protonics,
How
long Diabetic prior to transplant- 28 years
Months
or Yrs on dialysis - 0
City/State currently living in - Los Angeles, California
Marital or "Singleness" status - married (Donna Marie Simon)
Pets - 2 cats, smokie and speedy
Hobbies and/or Profession - atty, reading, golf
Benefits from Transplant - breathing and enjoying my daughter
Expectations from Transplant fulfilled - breathing and happy family
Expectations from Transplant not fulfilled - haven't won lottery yet
Problems from Transplant developed Type II after 8 years, weight gain
Status of Complications (better, same, etc.) or any other relevant or
non-relevant info.- working on it
email address- nightowl5755@yahoo.com
Date
of Profile: 10/11/08
Lori Stevens
First Name
Lori
Last Name or Initial Stevens
Age (if willing) 46
Date of Transplant (s) April 6, 2008
how long on wait list for TX 10 Months
Transplant Center Strong Memorial in Rochester, NY
Drugs A lot
How long Diabetic prior to transplant 36 years
Months or Yrs on dialysis 11 months
City/State currently living in Perry, NY
Marital or "Singleness" status Single
Pets None
Hobbies and/or Profession Reading, Crocheting, Family, Church,
Music, Movies, Flowers,
Benefits from Transplant A whole new life
Expectations from Transplant fulfilled No shots and I can eat
Expectations from Transplant not fulfilled None, I guess I really didn't
know what to expect
Problems from Transplant Slight infection in incision from surgery
Status of Complications (better, same, etc.) Much better
or any other relevant or non-relevant info. I feel like I have a new
life. For most of it I always had to be careful what I ate and that had
gotten worse once the kidney damage had started. At this moment I have
very few limitations, both in what I can eat and what I can do. I also
know that soon I will be doing everything I used to.
email address lasny1962@yahoo.com or thefavorite@frontiernet.net
Profile Dated 6/12/08
kptx home
Pamela Endo
First Name Pamela
Last Name or Initial Endo
Age (if willing) 57
Date of Transplant (s) KPTX 3-24-05
how long on wait list for TX 2 years, 3 months
Transplant Center Loma Linda University, California
Drugs Prograf, Prednizone others not related to transplant
How long Diabetic prior to transplant 46 years
Months or Yrs on dialysis 18 months
City/State currently living in Agoura Hills, California,
Marital or "Singleness" status Married for 35 years to high school
sweetheart, 3 children, Amy, 27, Alexander 22 and Andrew, deceased
Pets Elfie, 18 year old Beagle, Rudy, 4 year old Shi Tsu
Hobbies and/or Profession former elementary school teacher, professional water
colorist, art teacher, book club member, Red Hatter, TRIO Board member,
Jazzercizer, OneLegacy ambassador
Benefits from Transplant Absolutely saved my life. Seems to have stopped
FURTHER damage. No more insulin pump strapped to my bra!! The best was no more
extreme high and low blood sugar swings that seemed to happen within minutes of
one another!! More even personality, fewer mood swings, a deep and abiding
understanding of what is important in my life.
Expectations from Transplant fulfilled Yes, but had trouble adjusting to a
whole new set of demands that transplant brought. Doable
Expectations from Transplant not fulfilled Didn't expect to have eye problems
as I didn't even have prolific retinopathy until shortly before transplant,
development of osteoporosis
Problems from Transplant As above. I find it hard to relax in social situations
and I still have a lot of anxiety about keeping my organs healthy. Have never
regained the energy that I used to have, sleeping through the night is always
an issue with the amount of water I drink and the leg pain from my hip fracture
that I had while on dialysis. Everyday, though, I relish my good fortune and
feeling the joy of being alive and reasonably well.
Status of Complications (better, same, etc.)I didn't have real pronounced
complications before transplant, but the diabetic damage was there and
manifested itself post-transplant.. My eyes are worse, but this is not because
of transplant, the osteoporosis, probably caused by dialysis, leg pain is not
neuropathy, I have been very lucky, I think and cannot complain.
or any other relevant or non-relevant info. Just that I have a great life. My
husband, Bruce , is amazing, I have two wonderful children, I had a successful
career as an educator. I have a supportive family and great friends who are
there for me. I am even a really good painter, something I started while on
dialysis. I see myself as a highly successful person and I just believe that
attitude and perseverance are everything.
email address endopam@sbcglobal,net
website address none
Heather Hazlett
First Name Heather
Last Name or Initial Hazlett
Age (if willing) 33
Date of Transplant (s) KPTX 7/13/07, Cornea TX
7/27/05
how long on wait list for TX On Duke's list for almost 6 years,
but did not receive my transplant there. I listed in Charlotte in July
2007 and waited 10 days.
Transplant Center Carolina's Medical Center in Charlotte, NC
Drugs Prednisone, Prograf, Cellcept and a few others
How long Diabetic prior to transplant 30 years
Months or Yrs on dialysis 6 years 11 months
City/State currently living in Waxhaw, NC
Marital or "Singleness" status In a relationship
Pets Dogs (Duncan, Sadie, Pablo, Joey)
Hobbies and/or Profession I write a lot of poetry and enjoy
taking photographs.
Benefits from Transplant There may be too many to count! A
life without sudden low blood sugars. Going to bed without worrying about
waking up or not waking up to low sugars. Regained energy and just
feeling and looking more healthy than I have in a long time.
Expectations from Transplant fulfilled I am not sure I knew what
to expect so I am happy with the outcome
Problems from Transplant In stayed in the hospital a bit longer
than normal in the beginning. They did a biopsy and found a positive
crossmatch, but whatever that was all about it seems to have worked itself
out. I have had a lot of issues with a low white blood cell count, but
other than that things have gone fairly well.
Status of Complications (better, same, etc.) Everything seems to
be fairly stable with nothing new added in.
or any other relevant or non-relevant info. I was diagnosed with
diabetes at the age of 2 so until this point in my life I didn't know what it
was like to live without it. I am enjoying each and every moment of my
new found freedom!!
email address katindahat092675@aol.com
Kelly Pearce
First Name: Kelly
Last Name or Initial: Pearce
Birth Year: 1960
Date of Transplant (s): kptx Dec. 7, 1992
2nd ktx June, 16, 2005
how long on wait list for TX: 2 1/2 months for kptx
2nd ktx - living donor
Transplant Center: kptx - Emory, Atlanta, GA
2nd ktx - Piedmont, Atlanta, GA (same surgeon as kptx)
Drugs: Prograf,
Cellcept, Prednisone, Baby Aspirin, Sodium Bicarb, Protonix
How long Diabetic prior to transplant: 24 years
Months or Yrs on
dialysis: None prior to kptx, 2 months prior to 2nd ktx
City/State currently
living in: Greenville, SC
Marital or
"Singleness" status: Married 12-10-83
Pets: 'Andre' -
poodle
Benefits from
Transplant: A new life...
Expectations from
Transplant fulfilled: Definitely
Problems from
Transplant: First kidney failed after 12 1/2 years, but pancreas if still
working great after almost 16 years.
Status of Complications
(better, same, etc.): Better
email address: kspearce@charter.net
Kemp Beaty
First Name: Kemp
Last Name or Initial: Beaty
Age (if willing): Yes
Date of Transplant (s): January 1, 1999
how long on wait list for TX: 7 months
Transplant Center: Emory University Hospital
Drugs: Prograf, Cellcept, Prednisone, Lasix, Plavix, Pravacol
How long Diabetic prior to transplant: 33 years
Months or Yrs on dialysis: None, transplanted before dialysis was needed.
City/State currently living in: Central PA
Marital or "Singleness" status: Married
Pets: 1 dog, 3 cats
Hobbies and/or Profession: Profession: Computer Security; Hobbies:
Automobiles
Benefits from Transplant: a "normal" life. No more insulin or other
restrictions.
Expectations from Transplant fulfilled: Absolutely
Expectations from Transplant not fulfilled Problems from Transplant Status
of Complications (better, same, etc.): or any other relevant or
non-relevant info.: All my expectations were met and I have had no issues
with my transplanted kidney or pancrea. The greatest joy was getting to meet
my donor's family. The greatest sadness was when my donor's mother died of
cancer.
email address:kjb@kempbeaty.com
SAMPLE PROFILE
The following list is a general guide line for a profile at the kptx list web site at.
http://geocities.datacellar.net/HotSprings/Spa/9814/
There is
no need to answer all the questions if you feel they do not apply or you just
don't want to, due to any reason such as privacy. Just cut out the question in
your submitted profile. If there is anything that you
do not want made public on the web, DON'T PUT IT HERE.
If you want, you can include a picture of your self , or send it to me already
written in HTML with any reasonable sized gif's attached. I reserve the right
to edit where necessary.
there are no auto submit forms yet. you pretty much copy the suggested
guideline into your mail
program, write what you want, then send it off to me. You must send me a copy
directly if you
want it on the web page. Mail
To barrywillhight@comcast.net
Important!! indicate it is for the KPTX Profile page web site.
take care all
Ned and Barry
First Name
Last Name or Initial
Age (if willing)
Date of Transplant (s)
how long on wait list for TX
Transplant Center
Drugs
How long Diabetic prior to transplant
Months or Yrs on dialysis
City/State currently living in
Marital or "Singleness" status
Pets
Hobbies and/or Profession
Benefits from Transplant
Expectations from Transplant fulfilled
Expectations from Transplant not fulfilled
Problems from Transplant
Status of Complications (better, same, etc.)
or any other relevant or non-relevant info.
email address
website address
