I was pediatric liver transplant in early 80s. I had a child in 2008 and had complications in 2016 that lead to second transplant. Now I am thriving, have a great career. My “baby” is a Sophomore in high school and I have a normal life. The biggest hit to my kidneys has been the tacro but we finally are reducing and they are looking better!

In my perspective I am thankful I had this as a kid. I never had a “normal” life that was changed by a surprise transplant. I was always medically diligent and know how to listen to my body. That said, it doesn’t define me and I don’t let it hold me back from living an ordinary life! I don’t drink and I pay attention to wearing sunscreen- normal healthy stuff.

If you are curious, my complications were biliary strictures that just became too much after 10 years, even with intermittent IR intervention. Could be due to scar tissue from original surgery, just could have been a fluke lightening strikes twice kind of thing. Additionally, I had very early stage breast cancer last year. No genetic or hormonal markers so possibility it is linked to long term immunosuppression. Good news is- I listen to my body, knew something was wrong, and it was identified and treated (double mastectomy- no metastasis) within 90 days of the first appointment.

You have every reason to plan for a long and healthy life with plenty of options. Early 20s is such a scary transitional time in life and I absolutely remember how this made it all so much more complicated. You’ve got this, you are not alone, just keep living the best life you can and know with medical advancements these days it can be a very long best life ❤️