Well, Blogosphere, I apologize for the long delay between posts… but, I finally have something to say about my ongoing life following a kidney donation to my Stepdad.
I’ve been steadily training for my upcoming triathlon season. My training had been going really well up until a couple of weeks ago. Nothing seriously bad happened, but as I started to try to push things beyond what I was doing (i.e., longer/faster running, hillier bike rides, etc.) – I found that I hit a couple of walls. My body said, whoa, wait a minute. So, I had to admit that I’m not totally back to normal yet.
I’ve heard that it takes about a year to get back to normal. So, I shouldn’t be disappointed at all. I’m doing great after only four months. But it’s still difficult to admit that you can’t do everything you want. You feel normal. In fact, I have to remind myself sometimes that I even donated a kidney! And, I don’t think it’s all down to having only one kidney. I think the big thing is just my body adjusting after having surgery. It’s still getting back on track, and I just don’t realize it. I’m not sure if I’m over-doing it or not. But I think there are a couple of things I could be better about…
I need to get more rest/sleep in general. I also need to drink more water. I already drink a lot, but I can tell that I need even more. And, finally, I need to try to stop having so much caffeine. I’m really, really bad about that. But I can’t stand feeling tired/sleepy. And with my training schedule, I tend to have caffeine in order to keep up with everything. I really don’t know how I’m going to improve in that area, but it’s definitely in the back of my mind. No one told me that I needed to give up caffeine following my donation. So, this is just based on my own instincts.
Well, other than that, I can report that my stepfather, Gary, is still doing really well. I think he stopped walking (for fitness) some during the colder months but is back to walking more now. I sure hope he keeps that up and continues to live a wonderful, healthy life – free from dialysis! He’s always sending me well wishes from my kidney.
To other donors and potential donors out there — Be well!
-Jenn
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Jenn,
Glad to see your post on your progress. I’m a little over two months from my donation and just started back running and strength training. I’ve noticed the increased tiredness too, can be frustrating. But it is good to know other donors are experiencing the same, not something to be concerned about. I’m hoping to get back to triathlons this summer and look forward to hearing how you do! Take care, Jeni Lind
Hi Jeni – It’s great to know how well you are doing also! Good luck with your training. Just listen to your body. Swimming has gone really well, and I’m up to 3,000 meters with an an average time of 1:46 for my 100s. Biking has gone okay. The most I’ve ridden is 40 miles on a rolling-hill course. I’m still getting used to hillier courses. I average about 16 mph, sometimes 17 mph. Running feels like the weakest area right now. I’ve only run up to 10k so far. Not necessarily because I don’t feel like I can go further, I just haven’t yet. My best 10k so far has been :50:17 last Sunday. My first race is very hilly on both the bike and run; so I’m nervous about that. This year will be a learning experience for sure. You are smart to do the weight training; that’s one thing I haven’t worked on. I look forward to hearing how you do also!!
I am just in awe of you both doing triathalons at all! I have both kidneys and do not have the guts to try one….maybe I should. Go Jen(s)!!
Renee – if you want to try a tri, I will be there to help you! You are a great friend, and I really have appreciated all your moral support. I know you know what it’s like with your sister having been a donor. I’ll see you on Saturday for the road cleanup!