10/14/2026
The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. My kidney transplant journey started on June 6, 2022. I had to wait approximately 15 months for my kidney. First, I have a strong, supportive family that walked with me every step of the way. It was my husband, Ira, three daughters, and granddaughter. They were the emotional crutch when I felt like I was going to fall and provided laughter when they saw me growing weary. They are my WE GOT THIS TEAM!
The height of my journey came on Saturday, September 30, 2023, at 4:31 p.m. (my oldest daughter's birthday). My cellphone rang, and it was a call from the NYP/Weill Cornell Kidney Transplant Center. A kidney from a deceased donor was available; all I needed to do was accept. I was elated and felt blessed beyond measure. I responded affirmatively and shared the joyous news with my immediate family.
I am a retired elementary school administrator and caregiver for my Mom, who was on dialysis due to end-stage renal failure. It was through her dialysis experience that I knew I needed to be preemptive in dealing with my own CKD. For me, dialysis was not an option. This was the hardest thing about waiting was: would I end up on dialysis before being called for the kidney? I had no myths to deal with.
On October 1, 2023, I received my kidney transplant. I am genuinely grateful to my transplant team, Dr. Craig-Shapiro, surgeon, Dr. Salinas, nephrologist, Sana PA, and other staff members who have provided excellent care and support thus far.
The advice I would offer anyone waiting for a transplant is to stay focused, be patient, and trust and believe there will be a positive outcome. Continue to go to all of your doctor appointments and keep meticulous notes so you can monitor your progress. I would also tell them they will have good days and some not-so-good days, but they should try their best to LIVE, LAUGH, AND LOVE because they are still ALIVE. - Carolyn Henderson
