Aleks

a general nephrologist with transplant nephrology training, focused on dialysis patients, and on helping more veterans receive kidney transplants

[Aleks @Aleksthkidneydr]

@NephRodby @BookBurton @AnnaGaddy Omg.. you gave the most amazing gift! 💜

[Aleks @Aleksthkidneydr]

The most difficult step to become a kidney donor is the initial decision. After that, tests and blood draws are organized very efficiently by the transplant center, usually most in one day. But make sure you’re up to date on age appropriate cancer screening. It’s all very doable!

[Aleks @Aleksthkidneydr]

Covid vaccine is required for a kidney transplant. Some people may be reluctant to get vaccinated. But before you make your decision, please consider that patients live longer and healthier lives with a transplant. Make sure YOUR decision is fully informed!

[Aleks @Aleksthkidneydr]

Don’t avoid even initiating the kidney donation workup because you’re worried you can’t get out of it if you get cold feet or change your mind! At any point in the process, you can say no, and your recipient will be told you’re not a match. So don’t worry. Go ahead, and sign up!

[Aleks @Aleksthkidneydr]

If a doctor wants to give you a blood transfusion, ALWAYS make sure to let them know you are hoping for a transplant. It will remind them to only transfuse as a last resort, and give you special blood to minimize the risk of you developing antibodies that can cause rejection

[Aleks @Aleksthkidneydr]

It’s really difficult for some people to ask their friends or family to donate. They may think such a gift is too much. They may never ask. So don’t assume your loved ones have a plan or want to go on a list. If you are willing to donate, tell them! Let them know you want to give

[Aleks @Aleksthkidneydr]

@DanielGanger1 Thank you so much! 😊

[Aleks @Aleksthkidneydr]

Kidney donors have a smaller risk for developing kidney disease and needing dialysis than the average person. When compared to similarly extra healthy people, they have a slightly higher risk for both, but the absolute risk is still very small. So yes.. I’d do it all over again !

[Aleks @Aleksthkidneydr]

@selvasss7 Thank you so, so much.. that means so much to me!

[Aleks @Aleksthkidneydr]

Did you know that you can start getting worked up for a transplant as soon as your kidney function consistently gets below 20 %? The sooner you get worked up, the better. People live longer, healthier, lives with a transplant. You don’t want to miss out! Please, don’t wait!

[Aleks @Aleksthkidneydr]

What makes a good kidney donor? Over 18, in overall good health, normal kidney function. Upper age limit negotiable. No uncontrolled hypertension or diabetes, no active cancer, kidney stones, unresolved mental health issues, Obesity(may need to lose weight 1st), or active cancer

[Aleks @Aleksthkidneydr]

I recognize that I’m privileged since I can take time off from work to donate. Not everyone is so fortunate, but everyone should be! I’d like to share what I learned: federal employees are entitled to 30 days of paid leave for organ donation. Many states also have similar laws.

[Aleks @Aleksthkidneydr]

Thinking of how many times patients didn’t get a procedure with sedation or didn’t complete such test for transplant workup, because they didn’t have anyone to bring them home! Please, if u can, offer to bring a friend or neighbor home: save a life or help them get on that list!

[Aleks @Aleksthkidneydr]

Mimi is wearing her “please donate” sweater to pass on the message that we need more donors! There are 138000 people waiting on the list. Everyday, 100 more are added. Please consider donation 🥰

[Aleks @Aleksthkidneydr]

@kspero Amazing what the little beans can do! I’m biased as a nephrologist, but I’m convinced kidneys are THE smartest organs :)

[Aleks @Aleksthkidneydr]

Just had my 1 week checkup. This prompted this question: after initial 50% drop in GFR, in 10-14 days, the remaining kidney picks up some of the work, and we’re up to around 70% of previous baseline. 70-75% from 6 months onward. That’s enough to keep us perfectly healthy!

[Aleks @Aleksthkidneydr]

There has been positive energy all around me today.. friends sent pajamas, my awesome nephrectomy surgeon called personally to ask how I was doing; everyone at the clinic was just so sweet…we got beautiful, glistening snow.. and then this cute creature..just peed me a heart ! 💜

[Aleks @Aleksthkidneydr]

@kidneyrebel Aw, really?! Thx for saying so! I was so nervous in front of the camera!I made myself do it to encourage others to donate! And to educate on the process. But I don’t think the videos are that good yet, and I’m just so self conscious 😳. So thank u so much!

[Aleks @Aleksthkidneydr]

@suziekjos @AJBentall Omg.. that is so great! Such a heartwarming story! I wish both of your parents good health! 💜

[Aleks @Aleksthkidneydr]

@Imeri_Evans_Esq I’m so very happy to have been able to help in some way!

[Aleks @Aleksthkidneydr]

Remembering reasons why I donated! https://t.co/siRuhVf0Rj at least 1 of the 138000 people waiting on the kidney list live a longer, better quality life https://t.co/AYCp4kZiIB a Dr who donated, help improve donor and recipient trust in the medical system

[Aleks @Aleksthkidneydr]

@SurendraBSingh5 Thank you! I appreciate the advice and the care and concern ! 😊

[Aleks @Aleksthkidneydr]

POD # 4. Pondering what changes I need to make to my lifestyle after kidney donation to make sure my remaining kidney stays healthy . Mimi is thinking very hard. She wants me strong for all the walks, cuddles, belly rubs, princess grooming sessions, and more!