My Kidney Transplant: Things that Helped Me Before and After

Preparing for a kidney transplant is no small thing. I remember feeling a mix of excitement, fear, and relief all at once. Between all the doctor visits and the whirlwind of emotions, it was easy to forget about the little things that would actually make the hospital stay and recovery at home more comfortable. Looking back, I’m glad I had a few essentials ready because they made a huge difference for me.

I thought I would share what helped me in case it helps you too.

What I Brought to the Hospital

A Long Phone Charger

This was one of the best things I packed. Hospital outlets are never where you want them, and the last thing I wanted to do was twist around or get out of bed just to reach my phone. Having a long cord meant I could always have it close.

A Small Makeup or Toiletry Bag

I know it sounds simple, but having lip balm, lotion, a hairbrush, and a couple small items of makeup made me feel human again. When you are lying in a hospital bed for days, even little routines like that can lift your spirits.

A Comfortable Gown or Pajamas

My facility was fine with me wearing my own clothes once I was stable, and I cannot tell you how much better I felt being in my own things instead of a hospital gown. I made sure to bring something soft, loose, and easy to put on. It gave me a sense of normalcy when so much else felt out of my control. A top that buttoned helped tremendously because it allowed staff to examine my incision without having to expose my entire top area.

What I Needed at Home

Medicine Organizer

This one is non-negotiable. After transplant the medication schedule is serious, and there are a lot of pills to juggle. A weekly pill box saved me from second-guessing whether I had taken something or not.

Blood Pressure Cuff and Thermometer

The transplant team wanted me to track both of these daily. Having my own at home made it easy, and it gave me peace of mind knowing I was keeping a close eye on my numbers.

Loose Fitting Outfits

Comfort was the name of the game once I got home. I rotated between soft pajama bottoms, stretchy waistbands, and flowy tops. Anything tight around the incision was a no for me.

Grabber Tool

I did not realize how much I dropped things until I could not bend over to pick them up. A grabber became my best friend. It saved me from straining and made me laugh more than once about how much I used it.

Protein Drinks

Some days I had an appetite and some days I didn’t. Keeping protein shakes on hand meant I could still get what my body needed to heal even when I didn’t feel like cooking or eating a full meal.

A Large Water Bottle

Once I was discharged and allowed to increase my fluids, I learned quickly that staying hydrated was a top priority. A big water bottle made it easier to track how much I was drinking and helped me stay consistent.

Looking Back

Every recovery is different, but these were the things that helped me feel more comfortable and more in control during a time that was both overwhelming and life-changing. If you are heading into transplant, pack what makes you feel safe, cared for, and at ease. The little comforts really do matter.

My Personal Packing and Recovery List

Hospital Stay

• Long phone charger

• Small makeup or toiletry bag

• Comfortable gown or pajamas

At Home

• Medicine organizer

• Blood pressure cuff

• Thermometer

• Loose fitting outfits

• Grabber tool

• Protein drinks

• Large water bottle

Disclaimer: As an affiliate I could receive a small compensation for items purchased. Please note I personally purchased these items for my transplant and found them all very helpful during the recover.