Iowa Stubborn

We had a full day at the University of Iowa.

Matthew went through his donor evaluation which consisted of blood labs, a chest x-ray, a CT scan, a 24 hour urine test, an EKG, a psychologist evaluation, a kidney doctor evaluation, a surgeon evaluation, and being asked about 20 times if he realized what he was about to do.  Of course, they had me leave the room for a few appointments to make sure I'm not coercing him in any way.

All I had to do was meet with my nephrologist and transplant surgeon, and then I had to get a few labs drawn.  It was strange watching Matthew go through all the stuff I usually do.  I forgot that part of transplantation.  You feel so helpless as the recipient (and a little guilty).  I mean, I am used to being poked and prodded, but I hate that someone healthy has to do it because of me.  He also had to fast for about 16 hours, and that is the worst.

But we find out tomorrow if the crossmatch is negative.  This would mean that my cells don't attack his when they put them together in a petree dish.  In a week we find out about the antibodies.  Hopefully we get a good phone call tomorrow.

Can I just say that the team in Iowa is amazing?  They are all so helpful and enthusiastic.  One of my coordinators said the phrase, "I just love my job!"  This is such a confirmation that waiting for Iowa was the right choice.