Hello friends.
It's been a minute.
I'm now 16 months post kidney transplant. And my donor kidney affords me so many benefits. I continue to have less water retention, more energy and clearer thinking.
I was able to see a concert last month. That in itself was a miracle.
I am thankful every single day I open my eyes. Thankful for a second chance for as long as it can last.
There is something I've been dealing with for about 4 months now. A new diagnosis. Something I feel I need to share because ultimately it will impact social interactions and family traditions.
I've been diagnosed with diabetes-related gastroparesis.
This is a condition that affects the stomach muscles and prevents proper stomach functions like emptying and digestion.
The reality is, 25 years of blood sugar swings have damaged my vagus nerve.
Symptoms include nausea, stomach pain, vomiting and an extreme feeling of fullness after food is eaten.
Treatments are limited but can include Reglan, a surgically implanted stomach stimulator and a few drugs used off label.
I'm feeling a bit isolated again with this turn of events as my diet currently consists of white bread, plain grits, cream of wheat and eggs.
I've had a few "flare ups" which almost sent me to the hospital. It is a hard condition to explain to anyone.
I know it will change the way I celebrate holidays, birthdays and simply going out to eat. It already has.
So if you are with me, keep this in mind. It's pretty miserable and some days I just can't handle the pain. So if I cancel on you or can't eat what is served at parties; please don't take it to heart.
In other news, I will have my kidney function tested on Thursday. Hope to get good news there.
Thanks for reading! Be kind to each other.
Xoxo.
