Hello again. Thanks for taking the time to follow along with Patrick's progress. We have some big changes to report. First, Patrick and I have relocated to Greensboro, NC, where I am beginning a masters program at UNCG. This puts us in a good location, one hour from our parents and family in the Raleigh area, as well as the hospital in Chapel Hill where Patrick will receive a kidney transplant. An exciting part of the transition is that soon he will begin a new type of dialysis, called peritoneal, which will allow him to have the treatments at home, rather than visiting the center for hours on end every other day. This will give him a lot of relief day-to-day, and allow him to have a more "normal" life. Living together is going to be very positive for both of us, rather than being four hours apart and only seeing each other occasionally. Soon we will be feeling settled in, and hitting our stride as housemates for the first time since high school.
Additionally, there has been a breakthrough in the search for a donor. Contrary to our former belief that, because our blood types are incompatible, I could not be considered as a donor, we have discovered that the transplant will be possible due to new medical technology. A "simple" DNA test (mixing our blood samples together in a test tube) has shown that he will be able to receive my organ without any considerable complications. And though I have not yet been medically cleared to be kidney donor, we are very hopeful that all of my screenings and evaluations will determine that I am a good candidate for the operation. Time will tell, and we will keep you posted on the progress. Transplantation is a complicated field, and we are so grateful for the expert care that he is receiving from UNC. Please keep us in your thoughts and prayers, and know that your support in invaluable to us at this time of transitioning, adjusting, and getting used to the idea of starting a "new life" as a donor/recipient team. Love and blessings to all. Yours, Kate
