I cannot begin to tell you what it's like to have this happening. Mike's new kidney (OK, new to him...) is WORKING. We've been quiet about the donor, but his name is Jon, and at 6' 7" he's only an inch shorter than Mike. Today the amazing staff at BIDMC must really have wondered what was going on as these two enormous men began tottering down the hall in their little johnnies!
Less than 24 hours after surgery they were both in some pain, but doing as well as, if not better, than could be expected. Jon and his amazing family were subjected to our insatiable need to thank them and Mike's creatinine clearance numbers (key indicator of kidney function) had dropped an incredible 40%. The smile on the face of Dr. Ted Steinman (Mike's absurdly caring pre-transplant nephrologist) as he kissed Mike on the forehead and then met and thanked Jon said it all.
We can't wait to see what happens tomorrow.
Thank you, to EVERYONE who has continued to send kind thoughts, support and love - we wouldn't be here today without you.
Gratefully, Samantha & Mike and our families.