OOK

So, today marks the three-week point after my kidney donation surgery (hand-assisted laparoscopic nephrectomy).

This week was my first back in my own home, as I spent the fist two weeks recovering at my Mom’s house. I spent this week getting back into household chores and such. It is hard to remind yourself not to lift anything over 10 lbs., and you notice how much you use your abs for silly things like putting sheets on a bed and cleaning.

But, luckily, my husband has been around to help carry groceries and stuff. I’m also back to driving my car, which isn’t a big deal at all. I’ve been walking up to 4 miles the last couple of days, and the only thing I still notice is the need to go to bed early each night. New Year’s Eve should be interesting! I’m not sure I can make it to midnight 🙂

All in all the use of my ab muscles has been the biggest thing I’ve noticed this late in recovery. It’s just going to take a good while until they are back to normal. But if that’s the only thing I have an issue with, I certainly can’t complain! I still have some minor pain, but not anything bad enough to even take Tylenol for.

My stepdad (kidney recipient) got his staples out yesterday and is recovering nicely. He is also walking a lot and has gone up to 1.5 miles, which is great for him! I’m so happy for him!

I go back to work next week. I’m glad I took another week, as I really could have overdone it and hurt something. For other people considering donation, I would say that a two-week recovery might be possible, but if you have the option, definitely try to take a full three weeks for recovery. And some people might need as much as six weeks. I’m glad I don’t, though, because I would totally go crazy by then!

Cheers & Happy New Year!
-JB