DNA Patient Journey: Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle Post Kidney Transplant (Part III)

Take a behind-the-scenes look into the world of DNA with real examples of our values in daily life. In this episode, transplant-recipient Tiffany Archibald talks about her exceptional journey, life post-transplant, and how she’s maintained a healthy lifestyle.

Holistic Healing After Transplant

After her first transplant, Tiffany began to look at her health more holistically. Transplant recipients are usually referred to a renal dietitian to help them design a diet that’s healthy and achievable post-transplant. This often includes removing any preservatives and focusing on fresh fruits and vegetables, less animal protein, and recommended amounts of water. CKD patients often have diabetes or high blood pressure, so diet is even more key.

Tiffany says the other core focus is exercise but notes that you can’t out-work a bad diet; both are necessary. Before transplant, she was very active, so Tiffany’s life after surgery didn’t look much different. For patients who didn’t have that lifestyle, however, Tiffany emphasizes the importance of staying active for your health.

Mental Health for Transplant Recipients

Tiffany says that one of the hardest parts of recovering post-transplant is maintaining a good mental state, but it’s one of the most important. Her advice on diet and exercise isn’t revolutionary, but the importance comes from maintaining a positive mind-body connection throughout recovery. Mental health is one of the unsung struggles of post-transplant life.

Tiffany recommends taking advantage of a therapist or counselor after transplant if a patient wants. Recovering post-transplant can be a long, draining process, and it can be difficult to appreciate the new life you’ve been given. Be vocal with your support system about your needs and boundaries.


Finding Community as a Transplant Patient

Patients will always have the professional support of their transplant team, but Tiffany encourages patients to build a network of other recipients or CKD patients. While physicians may know the numbers, fellow patients offer empathy and understanding as someone who has experienced kidney transplant or dialysis. Finding community is vital, in Tiffany’s opinion, so she encourages patients to network with others that have had similar experiences.

There are many hurdles to overcome before and after a transplant operation, but that there is still something to look forward to on the other side. Kidney failure can be a large obstacle in the moment, but in the grand scheme of things, is one small part of life.