A Transplanted Life
A Transplanted Life:
My Story and Guide on Transplant Success
At age thirteen my world was turned upside down. The summer between my eighth and ninth grade changed my life forever. I went from rarely stepping foot in a doctor’s office, to becoming so familiar with them I frequently found myself napping on the exam table. I spent the next several months being passed from one specialist to the next like unidentified matter. However, at age fourteen, I discovered the answer to my failing health: I was diagnosed with autoimmune hepatitis. Two years later, after three different hospitals, countless doctors, and several surgeries, I was the fortunate recipient of a liver transplant.
This book was written for two reasons:
1. To share my story.
2. And offer practical advice to patients and parents alike, who are going through a similar experience.
Because of the dual purpose, the book is separated into two parts.
Part 1
Part 1 is the story of my experience going through an organ transplant. In this section I share the difficulties I faced, the frustrations I met, but also the joys I achieved, and ultimately, the victory I obtained.
Part 2
Part 2 is a resource full of practical advice and recommendations for other patients on a similar path. Everyone’s transplant experience is unique, but I simply want to provide patients with tools to help on their personal journey. I hope my story is an encouragement and that my suggestions assist other patients throughout their journey through organ transplant.