Still Moving Toward the Transplant List

My end-stage renal disease journey began in September 2026. Not long after, I started working through the steps to get on the deceased-donor kidney transplant list. It took time, including a visit to another transplant hospital about four hours away. Eventually, I was listed at my local hospital, MUSC.

About a month ago, I received a call and then a letter saying that although I’m on the list, I’m currently inactive. After an audit, the team found that the pressure in the vessels leading to my heart was higher than MUSC’s guidelines allow. The concern is that I need to be able to get through a complicated surgery safely.

I’m working toward being reactivated. In the meantime, I’m still accruing time on the list.

I met with a cardiologist about a month ago and had a chemical stress test. The pressure in my right ventricle appeared a little high, so the doctor recommended a catheterization to get a clearer picture.

That procedure was today at Trident Hospital in North Charleston. It was scheduled for 2:30 p.m., and I couldn’t eat or drink after midnight the night before. That made for a long day. I also got to wear the gown of shame—one of those small indignities that comes with a hospital procedure.

A friend from recovery drove me to and from the hospital. I received Versed and fentanyl, didn’t feel a thing, and slept a little while I recovered. My friend had a Coke Zero and a Greek salad with gyro meat waiting for me. I ate once I got home, grateful for a friend who showed up and a meal after a long fast.

Now the cardiologist will speak with the transplant team about the results and what comes next. I don’t know the next step yet, but I’m still moving forward—one appointment, one answer, and one day at a time.