Last week we visited Luciele Packard Children's Hospital for Prestons 6 month post transplant biopsy. The idea of having a biopsy was really worrisome for me thinking we're going to disturb a perfectly good functioning kidney. If it ain't broke, don't touch it. The team advised us that it is routine to complete a biopsy at 6 months, 12 months and 24 months post transplant. After that it will be as needed if something (scary) comes up.
I've known that a biopsy is a tissue sample, but what could they be looking for? The short answer....rejection. The biopsy is done under general anesthesia, and ultrasound. A portion of the outer edge of the kidney is taken to identify if the kidney is building any antibodies in fighting the kidney.
Preston's labs have been amazingly stable (knocking on some serious wood right now), so we were wondering why would we even want to disturb that perfect functioning kidney. The team said that the biopsy could show advanced signs of rejection, even when it appears that the labs are within normal limits. This week we received news that it doesn't appear that there is any
indication of early rejection or growth of antibodies against his new
kidney!
We're finally able to start making plans without constant fear that we will have a medical emergency that will prevent us from participating. We've been able to spend more time with friends, Preston has had a few play dates, he went down his first water slide yesterday, went swimming for the first time, and has gone to a few restaurants, and most importantly he will finally be able to meet so many friends and family members and everyone that has been encouraging us the last few years. We are having the time of our lives being able to do new things and take Preston to experience life. I always knew that being a parent was going to be rewarding; however I think the last 2 years have only made my appreciation for the "good times" that much sweeter!
